The China-Europe Middle Corridor is rapidly gaining traction, reshaping global trade dynamics and strengthening the economic ties between China and the West.
Recently, a significant milestone was achieved with the departure ceremony of a China-Europe Freight Train from Xi'an's Chanba International Port. This event marked a new chapter in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), commonly known as the Middle Corridor.
Just a few years ago, the prospects for the Middle Corridor were met with skepticism. Experts questioned the viability of the TITR, predicting it would struggle to gain recognition in both Eastern and Western markets. It seemed that China and its primary trading partner, Europe, were more inclined towards the southern transit route.
However, the narrative has shifted dramatically. On June 28, the first freight train via the Middle Corridor departed from Nanjing, carrying 110 containers filled with household appliances and essential goods to Istanbul. This inaugural journey was just the beginning of a series of strategic moves aimed at expanding the corridor's reach.
Following this success, the China Railway Group announced the designation of 87 routes for trains traveling from China to Europe and 39 routes for China to Asia. Efforts to organize train movements along both the China-Europe and China-Asia routes via the TITR have intensified, leading to an expanded train schedule.
Statistical data showcased at the Black Sea-Caspian Logistics Forum 2024: Corridors, Cargo, Infrastructure in Baku highlights a remarkable increase in freight traffic. Since the beginning of the year, 212 container trains, equivalent to 420,000 tons of cargo, have traversed the TITR. In stark contrast, only 11 block trains used this route in 2023. Projections indicate that by year-end, 300 container trains from China are expected to pass through the TITR, underscoring China's growing commitment to the Middle Corridor.
This surge not only enhances the efficiency of global supply chains but also reinforces the strategic partnership between China and European nations. As the Middle Corridor continues to develop, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of international trade and logistics.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
