Reviving an Ancient Trade Corridor
The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region sits at the heart of the Eurasian continent, long serving as a key node on the ancient Silk Road. Today, a major railway upgrade under the Chinese mainland’s Belt and Road Initiative is breathing new life into this historic route, connecting producers and consumers from Urumqi to Europe with greater speed and efficiency.
Numbers Tell the Story
Since 2007, Xinjiang’s foreign trade has leapt from 100 billion yuan to 435.11 billion yuan in 2024—a more than fourfold increase. This surge highlights the region’s vital role as a western gateway, facilitating cross-border flows of goods, ideas, and investment.
Modernization Beyond Rails
Railways are just one piece of the puzzle. CGTN’s ChinaByNumbers series showcases how agricultural modernization, cultural tourism, economic restructuring, and green transformation are reshaping Xinjiang’s landscape. From smart irrigation systems in farmlands to eco-friendly resorts that celebrate Uygur heritage, the region is embracing sustainable development on multiple fronts.
As the Belt and Road Initiative continues to advance and China’s western development strategy unfolds, Xinjiang’s upgraded rail network positions the region to play an even more dynamic role in global trade, cultural exchange, and green growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
