China Daily:

Recently, the Trans-Caspian International Transportation Route (TITR) was launched, further improving the accessibility and convenience of regional logistics. What measures has the transportation department taken to ensure smooth international logistics channels and improve the international logistics supply chain system? What specific work has been carried out in this regard? Thank you.

Li Xiaopeng:

Thank you for your interest in international logistics. Accelerating the construction of an international logistics supply chain system is crucial to ensure smooth domestic and international circulation, facilitate the export and import of goods, and maintain the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains. In recent years, we have undertaken a series of efforts to strengthen network construction, enhance service capabilities, and boost exchanges and cooperation.

First, we have strengthened overall planning and top-level design. Together with relevant departments, we have formulated a series of policies and measures to promote the building of diversified international logistics channels and encourage collaboration between logistics companies and firms throughout their industrial chains.

Second, we have actively expanded our international logistics network. China has established maritime shipping routes to major ports worldwide, with container shipping routes connecting more than 100 countries and regions. For years, China has ranked first globally in maritime transport connectivity. In terms of air cargo, our international air cargo service has extended to over 60 countries and regions. Hong Kong and Shanghai have emerged as the first and third largest international air cargo hubs, respectively. Additionally, China has signed agreements on international road transport with 22 Belt and Road partner countries. As for rail transportation, China-Europe freight trains have reached over 220 cities in 25 European countries. Overall, China has made significant progress in developing its global logistics network.

Third, we have redoubled our efforts to enhance international freight services. China has developed an international logistics service system with international shipping as the mainstay, supplemented by international air freight, China-Europe freight trains, international postal services, and international road transport. More than 95% of China's foreign trade is seaborne, and international air freight has become the primary mode of transport for high-end goods that are high value-added and time-sensitive. In 2023, China's express delivery sector handled 3.11 billion parcels all around the world, including those from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, effectively supporting the rapid development of cross-border e-commerce. Last year, China-Europe freight trains operated a total of 17,000 trips, shipping 1.9 million twenty-foot equivalent units. Additionally, China's international road freight volume rose by 105% year on year. We have made significant progress in transport services across shipping, air freight, international postal services, and international road transport.

Regarding the TITR mentioned by the reporter, we organized its opening ceremony on July 3 in cooperation with transport authorities in Kazakhstan. Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was on a state visit to Kazakhstan, and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the ceremony. This marked the first time vehicles from China arrived at a Caspian Sea port using a highway link, signifying the establishment of a comprehensive, multi-dimensional network integrating road, rail, air and pipeline transportation. This development strongly supports the security and stability of the China-Europe logistics supply chain.

Moving forward, we will collaborate with relevant departments to focus on opening-up and cooperation. We aim to promote the construction of diversified international logistics channels and continue to advance international logistics connectivity. Thank you!