Chongqing - A batch of freight trains carrying industrial spare parts from local enterprises in Chongqing successfully reached Padang Besar, Malaysia, through a rail transport route on June 8, resulting in a time-saving of over 40% compared to traditional river-sea intermodal transportation.

"The operation of this route marks a significant milestone as Chongqing becomes the first city in China to establish a direct intermodal rail connection with Malaysia," said the relevant person in charge from the Marketing Department of Yuxinou (Chongqing) Logistics Co.

Chongqing becomes the first city in China to establish a direct intermodal rail connection with Malaysia. (Photo/Shangyou News)

The goods were shipped from Tuanjiecun Railway Station in Chongqing, transported by the China-Laos Railway intermodal train to Vientiane, and delivered to Padang Besar through intermodal rail transport via Thailand.

"The operation of this train route further enriches the diverse logistics options between Chongqing and Malaysia, achieving both time and cost advantages," the relevant person in charge added.

In the future, Yuxinou will continue to explore the economic and trade potential between western China and Malaysia, aiming to establish regular operations of the Chongqing-Malaysia intermodal railway route in both directions. 

At the 2023 Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade (WCIFIT) in May, Malaysia served as the guest country of honor, displaying Malaysian specialties, including palm oil, the renowned Musang King durian, aromatic white coffee, and the exquisite bird's nest. This fair further enhances friendly exchanges and relations between Chongqing and Malaysia.

Expanding the transportation network between China and ASEAN countries

Yuxinou has actively participated in constructing the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (ILSTC) in recent years, thereby enhancing the quality of intermodal services between ASEAN countries and Chongqing for transportation to Central Asia and Europe.

The logistics network of ILSTC has positioned Chongqing as a vital railway hub, connecting Europe and Southeast Asia, reaching 393 ports in 119 countries and regions.

The successful operation of the Chongqing-Malaysia rail route also extends the transportation network between China and ASEAN countries, including the coverage of the Indochinese Peninsula. This development provides robust support for Chongqing's ongoing efforts to accelerate the construction of an inland open highland.

In 2021, Yuxinou launched international railway services connecting Chongqing to Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, linking with the China Railway Express. This has established an international railway intermodal network spanning Asia and Europe and connecting Southeast Asian markets.

International railway routes such as China-Vietnam, China-Laos-Thailand, and China-Myanmar have served as convenient transportation corridors between ASEAN and European countries.