Chongqing - As outlined in a recent document, the Chongqing government aims to establish 2,700 cross-border e-commerce entities by 2027 as part of its strategy for high-quality development in the global e-commerce sector.

The document introduces 15 policy measures to draw in and foster market players, develop industrial parks, spur innovation and growth, and augment the logistics service network. 

Key elements of the measures include attracting major cross-border e-commerce and third-party platform enterprises with significant global transaction values and import supply chain leaders. 

A cross-border goods store in Yuzhong District, Chongqing. (Photo/ Zheng Ran)

Chongqing encourages local enterprises to develop direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands that sell directly to the end customer rather than relying on intermediaries like retailers and wholesalers. The city supports those with registered trademarks, international product certifications, and patents in export destination countries.

The “cross-border e-commerce + industrial zone” model is a cornerstone of these measures. It promotes exports in sectors like automobile and motorcycle parts, consumer electronics, and general machinery. This initiative aims to propel “Chongqing-made” products onto the global stage. 

By 2027, Chongqing is setting its sights on establishing over three cross-border e-commerce industrial zones, each seeking to achieve an annual import and export volume exceeding 500 million yuan (about 69.7 million U.S. dollars).

Innovations in customs clearance are also part of the plan. Chongqing supports the development of front-end cargo terminals at airports and streamlined customs processes for e-commerce enterprises, which includes “7×24 hour” customs clearance services and enhanced customs facilitation.

Besides, the city is optimizing its foreign exchange management services for cross-border e-commerce. It encourages banks to offer settlement and related financial services based on electronic transaction data. There’s also support for domestic mail and logistics enterprises to provide overseas warehousing and logistics costs related to cross-border e-commerce.

Building public overseas warehouses in hub cities

In a strategic effort to enhance its logistics capabilities, Chongqing is poised to leverage the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (ILSTC). The city’s plan involves establishing an efficient mechanism integrating ILSTC with key logistics channels, including the China-Europe Railway Express, the Yangtze River waterway, and various air cargo networks.

Additionally, Chongqing is broadening its focus on ASEAN-oriented cross-border e-commerce. This shift emphasizes cargo transit, distribution, and a diverse range of regional commercial activities.

The city is actively promoting the development of municipal public overseas warehouses in significant international aviation and trade hub cities. This initiative is aimed at establishing a comprehensive global network of warehouse services.

Chongqing’s strategy also encompasses fully utilizing international cooperation frameworks like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and the China-Singapore (Chongqing) Demonstration Initiative on Strategic Connectivity (CCI). These efforts are designed to bolster international exchange and cooperation.

The head of the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce has reported notable advancements in the city’s cross-border e-commerce sector. Chongqing has witnessed impressive growth since its establishment in 2016 as the nation’s comprehensive cross-border e-commerce pilot zone. In 2022, the city’s cross-border e-commerce turnover surged to 40.71 billion yuan, marking a 27.9% increase from the previous year.