China and Cuba marked a milestone in bilateral relations on June 25 with the inauguration of their first regularly scheduled international freight corridor. The new air route, celebrated at a ceremony in Havana, aims to streamline logistics and deepen economic cooperation between the two nations.
Cuban Transport Minister Eduardo Rodriguez Davila and Chinese Ambassador to Cuba Hua Xin jointly cut the ribbon, joined by Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment Debora Rivas and senior airline representatives. The corridor will connect major industrial hubs in the Chinese mainland with Cuba’s growing logistics network, enabling faster movement of electronics, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural goods.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to practical, win-win collaboration,” said Ambassador Hua during the event. Minister Rodriguez Davila emphasized the route’s potential to “strengthen Cuba’s role in global supply chains,” particularly for biotechnology exports.
Analysts note the initiative aligns with China’s Belt and Road infrastructure strategy and Cuba’s efforts to diversify its economy. The weekly flights are expected to reduce shipping times by up to 40% compared to maritime transport, offering businesses in both countries a competitive edge.
