South Asian countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka are enhancing trade efficiency and convenience through customs modernization. Digital platforms, trade agreements, and policy improvements are driving innovations in customs procedures, injecting new momentum into regional economic growth and global market competitiveness.
On May 11, 2023, Lanzhou launched the 'Lanzhou Line' for international freight rail and road transport to South Asia. This new route tightly connects Lanzhou with South Asian countries, promoting local economic development and enhancing Sino-Nepalese relations. As a vital logistics hub, Lanzhou's strategic advantage under the Belt and Road Initiative is significantly elevated. The market recognition is gradually increasing, and it is expected to bring economic development opportunities to multiple regions in the future.
Colombo Port, located in Sri Lanka, is the largest port in South Asia, with an annual cargo throughput of 30.9 million tons. The port is enhancing its international competitiveness through expansion projects.
By July 2025, the total number of global flights reached 23,323,428, with an increase of 3% in aviation capacity compared to last year. The Central Asia and South Africa regions saw significant capacity growth, while the increase in seating in Northeast Asia and Western Europe was particularly notable, indicating a gradual recovery of the aviation market.
On May 11, 2023, the ‘Lanzhou’ international freight train for South Asia successfully launched, marking a significant achievement in regional economic development and the Belt and Road Initiative. The train travels through Lhasa and Shigatse to reach Nepal, showcasing Lanzhou's advantage as a key logistics hub and enhancing its international trade capabilities. Surrounding cities are optimistic about this new route, hoping it will foster bilateral economic cooperation and development.
In 2020, the China-Europe Railway Express 'Chang'an Hao' operated 3,720 trains, with a total cargo weight of 2.811 million tons, becoming the top performer in national core indicators. Its extensive reach covers Central Asia and South Asia, enhancing global logistics efficiency through an innovative sea-rail combined transport system. This development has also facilitated industrial agglomeration and foreign trade growth in the Xi'an region.
The Singapore Port Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with Hainan Port International to enhance connectivity between Singapore and Yangpu Port. This initiative aims to improve logistics efficiency between South China and Southeast Asia, thereby promoting regional economic growth.
Since the launch of the Lanzhou International Freight train on July 5, four successful shipments have occurred, generating an export value of over 70 million yuan. The service to Hamburg has been established, highlighting Lanzhou's significance in the Belt and Road Initiative. By connecting Central Asia, South Asia, and European markets, Lanzhou is poised to enhance its status as an international logistics hub and boost China’s manufacturing global competitiveness.
Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is a significant civil aviation hub in India and South Asia, located 16 kilometers southwest of New Delhi and named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The airport features two main runways and two passenger terminals, serving over 40 million travelers annually. In 2014, it became the twelfth busiest airport in Asia and was awarded the title of 'World's Best Airport' in 2015, highlighting its importance in global aviation services.
Memphis International Airport is a global freight hub, connecting North America, South America, Europe, and Asia through its advantageous geographic location and efficient logistics capabilities. As a FedEx super hub, the airport handles 4.3 million tons of cargo annually, providing rapid customs clearance and convenient warehousing services, making it a vital choice for cross-border e-commerce and logistics.
