The picture shows Chinese and foreign media representatives visiting the Operation organization Center of the New Western Land-Sea Corridor. Photo by Zhou Yi.

(KPL) The Western Land-Sea New Trade Corridor is playing a pivotal role in deepening trade and industrial cooperation between Chongqing and ASEAN nations, with significant improvements in logistics fostering cross-border exchanges.

On September 9, 2024, more than 30 journalists from mainstream ASEAN media, overseas Chinese media, and net advisors toured key logistics hubs in Chongqing, including the International Logistics Hub Park, Tuanjiecun Station, and Chongqing Railway Terminal.

The visit highlighted the transformative potential of the new corridor.

Located in the western hinterland of China, the Western Land-Sea New Corridor connects the Silk Road Economic Belt to the north and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road to the south.

It also links the Yangtze River Economic Belt, forming a vital bridge between inland China and the ocean, and is critical for fostering inter-country connectivity and boosting economic prosperity in the region.

Photo shows representatives of Chinese and foreign media visiting the exhibition hall of Chongqing International Logistics Hub Park. Photo by Zhou Yi.

ASEAN has become a crucial trading partner for China, particularly for its western region. Since the opening of the new corridor, trade exchanges between China and ASEAN have surged.

In the first half of 2024, Chongqing's imports and exports with ASEAN reached 54.51 billion yuan, marking a 6.3% year-on-year increase.

"The Western Land-Sea New Corridor is not just a key transportation route connecting Chongqing with ASEAN and other regions but is also developing into a major industrial corridor," said Han Chao, Deputy General Manager of Chongqing International Logistics Hub Company. "It’s driving industrial integration and development, helping Chongqing and ASEAN countries bridge the gap between mountains and oceans."

Huang Chengfeng, Vice President of Chongqing Jiaotong University, emphasized Chongqing's accelerating efforts to establish a modern manufacturing cluster. "The city’s industrial chain is becoming more complete, and the corridor enables both industrial and logistical connectivity," Huang said. He added that the Western Land-Sea Corridor enhances Chongqing's role as a comprehensive open hub in western China.

Huang also noted the growing economic ties between Chongqing and ASEAN in recent years and expressed optimism for the future. "I hope both sides will continue to strengthen their cooperation and share the benefits of development," he said.

As logistics networks improve and industrial integration deepens, the Western Land-Sea New Corridor stands as a symbol of collaboration between China and ASEAN, helping the two regions to overcome geographical challenges and foster long-term economic growth.

KPL