In a remarkable display of economic vitality, China’s rail freight volume and turnover soared to unprecedented heights in June, reaffirming the country’s leading position in global logistics. According to data released on Sunday by China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., the national railway operator, the nation transported 332 million tonnes of cargo last month, marking a 6.1 percent increase year on year. The freight turnover reached an impressive 266.5 billion tonne-kilometers, up 5.3 percent from the previous year.
The surge was particularly notable in specific sectors. National rail shipments of containers, automobiles, and cold-chain cargo experienced significant growth, with increases of 18 percent, 12.1 percent, and 21.2 percent respectively, all setting new records. This substantial growth in rail freight indicates a robust expansion in China’s domestic industries and a strong demand for efficient transportation of goods across the country.
Earlier data revealed that rail passenger trips in China also hit a record high of approximately 2.1 billion in the first half of 2024, soaring by 18.4 percent compared to the same period last year. This dual increase in both freight and passenger rail traffic underscores the dynamism of China’s transportation sector and its pivotal role in supporting economic development.
On the international front, cross-border cargo transportation witnessed rapid growth, playing a crucial role in stabilizing international supply chains and injecting fresh momentum into China’s foreign trade and high-level opening-up. The China-Europe freight train service, a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative, recorded 1,719 trips in June—a 15 percent year-on-year increase—and shipped 180,000 containers, up 11 percent. This service has completed over 10,000 trips this year alone, connecting 224 cities in 25 European countries and over 100 cities in 11 Asian countries, and transporting more than 50,000 types of goods.
Similarly, the China-Laos Railway, a landmark project under the Belt and Road cooperation, saw its cross-border cargo shipments climb to 2.783 million tonnes in June, reflecting a 20.7 percent year-on-year increase. These developments highlight China’s expanding connectivity with neighboring countries and its commitment to fostering international trade partnerships.
The impressive figures in both domestic and international rail freight underscore China’s sustained economic growth and its integral role in global trade networks. As China’s railways continue to break records, they not only bolster the nation’s economy but also contribute significantly to the stability and efficiency of global supply chains.
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China's rail freight volume, turnover hit record highs in June
cgtn.com
