Chongqing— China is reshaping global logistics by developing a rail‑powered trade corridor that rivals traditional maritime routes. At the heart of this initiative is Chongqing, an inland metropolis now functioning as a high‑speed alternative to ocean shipping. Goods from Southeast Asia can reach Europe in under two weeks, compared to 30–40 days by sea.
The ASEAN Express, launched in 2023, connects Hanoi to Chongqing in just five days. From there, shipments continue to Germany, Poland, and other European destinations, avoiding customs delays and port backlogs. Rail freight also offers lower emissions than air transport and reduces exposure to piracy or maritime disruptions.
Chongqing’s logistics capacity has expanded rapidly, handling hundreds of containers daily and accounting for nearly 25% of China’s vehicle exports. The city also produces one‑third of the world’s laptops, underscoring its role as a hub for vertically integrated manufacturing and outbound logistics.
Strategically, the corridor reduces reliance on vulnerable maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Malacca and the Suez Canal. While much of China’s current rail freight passes through Russia, Beijing is accelerating investment in the Middle Corridor via Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey to hedge geopolitical risks.
Challenges remain in cost competitiveness and customs harmonization. Early Belt and Road rail lines relied on subsidies, and without policy alignment across Central and Southeast Asia, efficiency gains may stagnate. To address this, China is working with ASEAN partners to digitize border logistics and streamline protocols, ensuring rail freight remains viable as a long‑term alternative.
