Express delivery logistics have become an indispensable part of modern commercial ecosystems. With the rapid development of e-commerce, daily parcel volumes have surpassed the 100 million mark, demonstrating tremendous market potential and expansive growth prospects. Against this backdrop, the Global Smart Logistics Summit has provided fresh perspectives and innovation opportunities for the industry.
Insights shared by Alibaba founder Jack Ma, particularly regarding Cainiao Network's plan to invest hundreds of billions in building a national smart logistics backbone network, signal the arrival of a transformative era for China's express delivery sector.
1. The Advent of New Logistics
For consumers, this volume growth represents more than just numerical increases—it reflects substantial improvements in service quality. As e-commerce penetration rates continue climbing and consumer demands grow increasingly diverse, the logistics industry faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities.
ZTO Express Chairman Lai Meisong noted that China's e-commerce penetration rate has surpassed that of the United States, highlighting the country's advantages in logistics efficiency and cost control that enable more convenient and efficient delivery services. These advancements stem directly from innovations and upgrades in logistics models.
2. Traditional Supply Chain Challenges
However, traditional supply chains struggle with order processing due to information silos. Consumers now expect faster, more precise delivery services that conventional logistics models can't adequately provide. Consequently, building an open, transparent, and collaborative ecosystem has become imperative in the new logistics era.
Alibaba Academic Committee Chairman Zeng Ming emphasized that open data-sharing environments promote supply chain transparency. Through efficient information processing and coordination, comprehensive optimization becomes possible—enhancing operational efficiency while enabling personalized, low-cost services.
3. Cainiao's Strategic Vision
Within this context, Cainiao Network's strategic positioning proves particularly crucial. The company aims to establish a nationwide smart logistics network ensuring 24-hour delivery coverage across all regions. Currently partnering with over 3,000 collaborators spanning 2,700 districts, Cainiao already provides same-day and next-day delivery in 1,500 areas.
This infrastructure not only elevates consumer experiences but also offers e-commerce businesses more effective logistics solutions.
4. Enhancing Cross-Border Efficiency
Beyond domestic markets, Cainiao is constructing powerful global logistics hubs to improve international delivery efficiency. Its cross-border network now reaches 224 countries with more than 300 overseas warehouses, enabling rapid distribution of Chinese products to major global markets—providing invaluable support for international expansion.
5. Technology-Driven Transformation
Amid digital transformation, Cainiao leverages advanced technologies like artificial intelligence to boost courier productivity, particularly in information processing and route planning. The Cainiao Voice Assistant exemplifies this approach, helping delivery personnel optimize routes and schedules while saving significant time—enhancing overall efficiency to manage surging order volumes.
6. Sustainability Commitments
While driving operational excellence, Cainiao actively pursues environmental responsibility. By streamlining processes and reducing material waste—especially in packaging—the company advances industry-wide sustainability. As State Post Bureau Director Ma Junsheng noted, the sector's robust growth creates approximately 200,000 annual jobs, with increasing order volumes further expanding employment opportunities and economic contributions.
7. Building a New Logistics Ecosystem
Cainiao's mission extends beyond supply chain optimization to include social employment growth and environmental initiatives—creating substantial societal value. As Jack Ma articulated, Cainiao's future purpose transcends e-commerce problem-solving, aiming to contribute wisdom and resources toward national development. This profound sense of responsibility reflects the company's visionary approach to shaping next-generation logistics ecosystems.
8. Conclusion
With parcel volumes rising and logistics accelerating toward transformation, China's commercial landscape grows increasingly promising. Cainiao's global performance warrants close attention as its leadership continues influencing industry trajectories. Through these efforts, the new logistics era promises revolutionary changes—building smarter, more efficient, and sustainable systems that gradually construct tomorrow's commercial infrastructure.
