Chongqing – On February 9, a shipment of 103.5 tons of recycled casting aluminum alloy arrived at Yongchuan Port in Chongqing, marking the first trial of a new logistics model for imported recycled aluminum in the country. The recycled aluminum materials were purchased by Chongqing Sigma Metals, Inc. from Hong Kong and entered China through Shanghai's Waigaoqiao Port. 

After completing the necessary transfer procedures, the materials were transported directly to Chongqing by sea, bypassing several traditional steps in the process. Upon arrival at Yongchuan Port, the shipment quickly cleared customs and was sent straight to the company's production line. This innovative approach, aimed at simplifying customs procedures, cutting costs, and improving import efficiency, is set to provide a major boost to industries that rely on this vital material.

On February 9, a shipment of 103.5 tons of recycled casting aluminum alloy arrived at Yongchuan Port in Chongqing, southwest China, marking the first trial of a new logistics model for imported recycled aluminum in the country. (Photo/Chongqing Daily)

Today, recycled aluminum has become an increasingly important resource in industries such as new energy vehicles, high-end manufacturing, and green construction materials. The material is not only essential for maintaining stable supply chains but also strengthens the green competitiveness of the industries that depend on it.

In Chongqing, which has emerged as a key manufacturing hub in China, recycled aluminum plays a crucial role in supporting local industries, including major players like Great Wall Motors and Yadea Electric Vehicles. With a projected shortfall of over 200,000 tons of recycled aluminum by 2025, the city aims to optimize its import processes to secure a steady supply. 

To address these challenges, the Chongqing Customs District, the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce, and the Chongqing Port and Logistics Office conducted an extensive investigation into the region's aluminum industry. Based on their findings, they proposed a new logistics model designed to streamline the import process. The pilot program was successfully approved, and a new system of coordinated supervision for recycled aluminum raw materials at both the port of entry and the destination was introduced.

Under the new model, many traditional steps involved in the importation of recycled aluminum have been eliminated. Shipments no longer pass through multiple stages at various ports but instead go directly to Chongqing, where they are cleared by customs and delivered to production facilities without delay. This streamlined process reduces the time spent on storage, unpacking, and reloading, improving the overall efficiency of logistics operations.

As a result, companies can now enjoy lower costs and faster delivery times. For example, each container now saves an average of 12,000 yuan (about 1,680 U.S. dollars), thanks to the more efficient logistics procedures.

Chongqing Sigma Metals, Inc. has already experienced the advantages of this new system. The company has reported that the faster and more cost-effective import process has not only helped resolve production capacity bottlenecks but has also ensured a more affordable and reliable supply of raw materials. This is expected to benefit other key industries in the region, including automotive manufacturing, electronics, and heavy equipment production, which all rely heavily on a steady supply of recycled materials. 

Looking ahead, Chongqing plans to expand the pilot program and further improve the efficiency of its aluminum import process. The city aims to continue strengthening its international trade channels, ensuring that high-quality resources can be imported in a timely and cost-effective manner.