On September 2, the first container train of the Chongqing-Xinjiang-Russia railway departed from the Central Station of Tuanjie Village, Chongqing Municipality and headed for Russia, the first such journey in China.
The Chongqing-Russia public train runs every Tuesday; but as the volume of goods increases, Chongqing will increase the train frequency.
It is reported that this trip carried 45 containers, tramsporting auto accessories, machinery and equipment, light industrial products and clothing. The entire journey lasts 14 days.
At present, Sino-Russian trade volume is worth 80 $billion per year, of which e-commerce and high-end goods trading accounts for 40 percent. These goods are for potential customers in Russia. It's expected that by 2020, Sino-Russian trade will exceed $200 billion per year, and more goods will be transported by train.
The Chongqing-Xinjiang-Russia railway not only enriches the connection between China and Russia, but also brings cargo from the southwest region, Yangtze River Delta, Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong and other regions to Chongqing, all of which has a positive influence on Chongqing's economy.
By Huang Pei
Edited by Brian Salter
John Edwards, the UK trade commissioner for China, praised Chongqing over its rise as a burgeoning center in intelligent manufacturing.