Chongqing - Chongqing has initiated its first direct train connection to Istanbul, Türkiye, through the China-Europe Railway Express (CRE), marking its safe arrival recently.

Departing from Tuanjie Village Station in Chongqing, the train embarked on its journey through Horgos Port, weaving through Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia and spanning the Caspian and Black Seas. It involved a single rail-to-rail transfer and three ferry crossings, collectively covering a distance of about 10,000 kilometers.

The cargo primarily consisted of home appliances and mechanical equipment valued at over 20 million yuan (USD 2.78 million). “This direct train has provided solid support for the timely delivery of our goods, effectively diversifying our operational risks and adding a new route to our export reserves,” said a spokesperson from a client.

Following the earlier one to Constanta, Romania, the second southern route from Chongqing to Istanbul boosts China’s western inland regions like Chongqing to access Europe. It enhances the CRE’s resilience and overseas corridor capabilities and strengthens Chongqing’s role in the Silk Road Economic Belt.

“To ensure the smooth operation of the train, we have maintained close communication with exporting companies, deepened the application of ‘automatic arrival’ processes, and streamlined customs declaration, document review, and inspection procedures,” said Deputy Director Chen Yuanjun of Yuzhou Customs.

Peng Xi, Director of the Railway Logistics Division at Chongqing’s Port and Logistics Office, highlighted the CRE’s dedication to improving service by focusing on consolidation, stability, and enhancement. 

Peng said they are actively identifying demands and quality market sources along the southern route and developing the trans-Caspian international transport corridor to ensure efficient goods movement in both domestic and international markets, aiming to boost Chongqing’s export-oriented economic growth.

Launched in 2011 with its inaugural “Yuxinou” route from Chongqing, the China-Europe Railway Express (CRE) was officially consolidated into a single brand in 2016. It now connects 25 European countries and 217 cities. By 2023, the CRE had completed 17,000 journeys, transporting 17.49 million standard containers, marking a 6% increase in trips and an 18% growth in cargo volume compared to the previous year. 

Serving as a more sustainable alternative to air transport and a quicker option than sea freight, the CRE has become an essential component of the global supply chain.