Milestone achieved: Hohhot China-Europe freight train exceeds 10,000 TEUs

A Hohhot China-Europe freight train. [Photo/WeChat account of Hohhot Release]

The Hohhot China-Europe freight train has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 10,000 TEUs in cumulative transport volume. Launched in December 2021, this train service has seen remarkable growth, breaking new records year after year.

One key aspect of this success is the localization of goods. Initially sourcing from Shandong, Anhui, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, and other regions, the train has expanded to include local products such as Skyworth televisions, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds, boosting Hohhot's openness and entering several international markets. In return journeys, it collects wheat gluten flour and feed wheat flour from Kazakhstan, meeting the needs of Hohhot and surrounding areas' feed processing industries.

The train's bidirectional route connectivity is another contributor to its success. Since October 2023, the train has successfully operated return journeys, enhancing the region's export capabilities and exploring new economic growth points. With 14 return trips completed so far, the train has become a vital link in Hohhot's industrial and trade ecosystem.

Furthermore, innovative approaches have been introduced, like the "Train +" model, and partnerships with Cainiao International Logistics to launch customized freight trains for companies like Skyworth. The train's integration with cross-border e-commerce and new trade formats has resulted in the first-ever cross-border e-commerce train in the region. Additionally, by launching eight Central Asia trains, a novel "carpooling" approach for goods to different countries and multiple stations has been realized.

The city will continue optimizing services, strengthening cooperation with shipping platforms, and promoting Hohhot's unique products to establish this train service as a model for the region, thus contributing significantly to the Belt and Road Initiative's open channel construction.