Chongqing—Since the launch of the first China-Europe Railway Express (CR Express) “Yuxinou” from Chongqing to Duisburg, Germany, in 2011, over 110,000 trips had been completed as of June 10, 2025, with the total value of goods transported exceeding USD 450 billion, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.

Logistics companies play a central role in cross-border goods transportation in the operation of the CR Express. One such company is Meilian International Logistics Group Corp. (ML Logistics), based in Liangjiang New Area. Founded 31 years ago by CEO He Daoguo with a team of just six people, the company has since grown into a 500-employee enterprise and become a key player in the CR Express.

In November 2024, in Chongqing, the 100,000th train of the China-Europe Railway Express is ready to depart. (Photo/Zhang Jinhui)

In 2018, ML Logistics established its European hub in Duisburg, the endpoint of the CR Express route from Chongqing. He explained that Duisburg is the destination due to its central location in Europe and its ability to connect efficiently with surrounding countries. With well-developed road, rail, and waterway networks, Duisburg offers seamless onward distribution to various countries across the continent.

Inside ML Logistics’ warehouse, goods from Europe and products made in China, ready to be exported, can be seen side by side. According to He, current exports from Chongqing to Europe include locally manufactured vehicles, auto parts, motorcycles, and smart home appliances. On the return journey, imported goods primarily consist of high-end automobiles from Germany, along with precision machinery, advanced manufacturing equipment, medical devices, and premium consumer products.

Among the wide range of exports, a motorcycle comes from Chongqing Naxeon Technologies Co., Ltd., also based in Liangjiang New Area. Unlike conventional motorcycles, Naxeon’s models are powered by clean energy and feature futuristic designs, earning them the nickname Tesla on two wheels.

According to Mu Gang, Founder and CEO of Naxeon, Europe represents the image of the world’s high-end consumer market, which aligns with Naxeon’s global ambitions. “That’s why we chose Europe as our first battleground—to build our brand awareness through real market trials,” Mu said. Currently, Naxeon has entered around 15 European countries.

However, Naxeon’s road to Europe has not been without obstacles. Mu noted that geopolitical instability and conflicts in the Middle East have forced many shipments to detour around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. As a result, what used to be a 35 to 45-day sea journey now takes nearly 80 days.

Against this backdrop, the CR Express has offered Naxeon a crucial alternative. Roughly 40% of Naxeon’s revenue comes from European exports, and about half of that volume is now shipped via the CR Express, said Mu. Compared to sea freight, the trains save Naxeon 20 to 25 days in transit time. While rail transport is typically more expensive than sea freight under normal conditions, today’s political climate has pushed ocean freight costs, making rail transport more cost-effective.

The Naxeon I AM model won a Red Dot Award in 2024. (Photo/Naxeon)

Mu also emphasized the strategic benefits of integrating rail logistics with overseas warehouses. The CR Express enhances our supply chain efficiency and strengthens our brand’s competitiveness in the European market.

As the freight train continues to operate steadily, Naxeon views the European market not only as its first battleground but also as a launchpad for global expansion. The first step is to build the brand and develop core technologies in Europe, Mu said. The next step is to expand into high-demand markets such as Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

(Huan Ran, as an intern, also contributed to this report.)