National Logistics Hub Construction: Current Status, Impact, and Future Outlook

The construction of national logistics hubs provides core support for modern logistics systems by integrating resources to reduce operational costs and promote high-quality regional economic development. Under policy guidance, successful cases of hubs in Shanghai, Hefei, and Kunming demonstrate effective logistics collaboration and industrial agglomeration.
National Logistics Hub Construction: Current Status, Impact, and Future Outlook

01 The Concept and Significance of National Logistics Hubs

1.1 Definition of National Logistics Hubs

As core infrastructure of modern logistics systems, national logistics hubs integrate multiple functions including cargo distribution, storage, sorting, and transshipment. Categorized by operational needs, these hubs fall into six types: land port-based, airport-based, port-based, production service-oriented, commercial service-oriented, and land border port-based. These hubs not only enhance regional service capabilities but significantly optimize logistics efficiency, serving as critical pillars for building high-performance logistics networks.

1.2 Strategic Importance

  • Backbone of Modern Logistics: As key nodes in the "corridor + hub + network" model, they consolidate resources and elevate systemic efficiency.
  • Cost Reduction: Achieve economies of scale through resource concentration and process optimization, strengthening industrial competitiveness.
  • Regional Economic Catalyst: Attract upstream/downstream supply chain enterprises, fostering high-quality economic development.
  • Global Connectivity: Border/airport/port hubs enhance international logistics channels and trade facilitation.

02 Policy Framework for Hub Development

Comprehensive policy support has been established since the initiative's launch.

2.1 National Logistics Hub Layout and Construction Plan (2018)

Targeting approximately 150 hubs by 2025 to strengthen the "corridor + hub + network" framework and align with industrial distribution.

2.2 Implementation Plan for Hub Network Construction (2021-2025)

Focuses on 120 prioritized hubs, emphasizing existing facility integration and multimodal transport capabilities.

2.3 Multi-phase Hub Designation

Since 2019, multiple batches of hubs have been designated with specific requirements for infrastructure and operational upgrades.

2.4 2025 Layout Optimization

Under the principle of "practical adaptation, dynamic adjustment," 26 new hubs were added while optimizing existing layouts for network balance.

03 Development Pathways

3.1 Infrastructure Enhancement

  • Logistics Parks: Modern facilities with seamless intermodal connectivity.
  • Multimodal Transport: Improved transshipment efficiency and information interoperability.
  • Supporting Facilities: Smart/automated systems to boost operational capacity.

3.2 Resource Integration

  • Industry Consolidation: Encourage mergers among regional logistics firms and nurture market leaders.
  • Industrial Synergy: Deep integration with manufacturing/commerce sectors.
  • Cross-regional Coordination: Establish cooperative mechanisms for resource optimization.

3.3 Operational Innovation

  • Smart Management: AI-driven systems and lean practices.
  • Service Diversification: Value-added services for customized needs.
  • Sustainability: Green technologies and low-carbon transport solutions.

04 Case Studies

4.1 Shanghai Airport Hub

Leveraging two international airports to support advanced manufacturing and export-oriented industries.

4.2 Hefei Production Service Hub

Facilitating photovoltaic and new energy industries through efficient supply chains.

4.3 Kunming Airport Hub

Developing South/Southeast Asia-focused networks to boost regional openness.

05 Hub Typology Analysis

Land Port: Zhengzhou's multimodal solutions enhance inland logistics.
Airport: Guangzhou's specialized air cargo services.
Port: Ningbo-Zhoushan's comprehensive maritime operations.
Production Service: Dongguan's tailored industrial supply chains.
Commercial Service: Wuhan's distribution networks driving trade.
Border Port: Honghe's cross-border trade facilitation.

06 Key Success Factors

  • Policy Support: Local governments providing land/fiscal incentives.
  • Infrastructure Investment: Modernizing transport and storage facilities.
  • Industrial Clustering: Creating symbiotic ecosystems with adjacent sectors.