Chongqing - Ringing in the new year, Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality witnessed the inaugural journeys of four rail-sea intermodal trains of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (ILSTC) on January 1. 

Departing from key stations, including the Tuanjiecun Station, Xiaonanya Station, Yuzui Station special line, and the south freight yard at the Yuzui station, this signals a new era in intermodal transportation for the region.

On January 1, 2024, the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor rail-sea intermodal train loaded with automobile and motorcycle parts, along with chemicals, embarked on its journey from Chongqing's Tuanjucun Station. (Photo/ Huang Rui)

The batch of goods aboard these trains is diverse, ranging from new energy vehicles and motorcycles to parts and accessories for these vehicles. It also includes a wide array of general-purpose machinery, such as generators, washing machines, and micro-cultivators. 

Among the more unique items are polyester chips, chemical products like yuanming powder used in printing and dyeing, dinosaur models, and a variety of everyday consumer goods. 

Totaling 322 TEUs, the cargo is destined for the Qinzhou Port in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and is set to arrive in just two days. From there, it will be dispatched by sea to 27 countries across five continents, including destinations like Vietnam, Thailand, Germany, and Tanzania.

In recent years, Chongqing has been strategically capitalizing on the Belt and Road initiative to fast-track its development as an inland hub of international trade. The ILSTC rail-sea intermodal train has been a resounding success, demonstrating robust growth. 

Between January and November 2023, the corridor facilitated the transport of 145,000 TEUs, marking a 26% increase compared to the previous year. The total value of these goods reached 18.46 billion yuan (about USD 2.59 billion). The ILSTC extends its reach to 486 ports in 120 countries and regions.

Up to now, the ILSTC has extended its reach to 486 ports in 120 countries and regions. (Graphics/Vivian Yan)

Over the New Year's Day period, the corridor is set to maintain steady operations, including the rail-sea intermodal trains service and the China-Laos Railway. The total number of trips for this festive period is expected to exceed 20, showing the corridor's operational capacity and its pivotal role in enhancing Chongqing's connectivity with the world.