In a significant development for international logistics, a groundbreaking rail-road intermodal export system has been officially launched in China's Greater Bay Area, promising to enhance export efficiency while reducing transportation costs for businesses.
On October 16, under the coordination of Shenzhen's Transport Bureau, the first intermodal export train of the "Bay Area Express" service departed successfully. Operated by China Merchants Group subsidiary Sinotrans, this initiative introduces China's first rail-road multimodal transport model for export goods, creating new pathways for regional businesses.
The new system results from a collaborative pilot program between China State Railway Group and the General Administration of Customs. Sinotrans leveraged its operational experience from the existing Shenzhen-Kashgar rail service to conduct customs data tests and organize cargo for the inaugural shipment.
The initial train will transport goods via rail to Kashgar North Station, where they will be transferred to cross-border trucks. These vehicles will then pass through the Irkeshtam border crossing into Kyrgyzstan, with final delivery to clients in Uzbekistan.
This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional secondary transfers at highway supervision yards upon arrival in Kashgar, saving approximately 2-3 days in transit time. The system also implements comprehensive customs information monitoring, allowing Shenzhen-based exporters to complete all declaration and inspection procedures in a single step - improving customs clearance efficiency by over 30%.
Beyond serving the growing demand for Central Asian markets, the international multimodal transport solution significantly reduces overall logistics expenses for participating companies.
The new model is expected to accelerate economic interaction between Guangdong and Xinjiang under China's "dual circulation" development strategy while enhancing industrial coordination and resource allocation between the regions. Sinotrans plans to expand collaboration with Guangzhou Railway Group, China Railway Container Transport Corporation, and Shenzhen International Holdings to standardize multimodal transport operations and provide enhanced services for foreign trade enterprises in the Greater Bay Area.
