By FANG Zhuoran

The first China Europe Freight Train carrying goods to be exhibited at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) has arrived in Shanghai, with goods valued at over 16 million euros (120 million yuan, US$17 million). 

Launched in 2021, the CIIE express has been traversing through European countries, Asian countries, and Russia. As this freight train turns three, customs authorities have streamlined procedures, deploying special task forces and establishing a 24/7 green passage for international transport. Goods that do not require examination can be swiftly offloaded from the train and those that need inspection experience significantly reduced processing times.

This year stands out due to a change in procedure. Unlike previous years where declaration and examination occurred at various locations, all processes are now centralized in Shanghai. 

Moreover, the train arrived approximately two weeks earlier than in past years, facilitating the preparation and sales activities at the CIIE. 

On October 9, the first Munich Express departed from the Minhang Railway Station and is expected to reach Munich in 17 days, carrying goods valued at US$27 million (197.22 million yuan). By October 11, four China Europe Freight Trains had transported over 2000 tons of exhibits to China. Before the 6th CIIE opens, three more trains will operate between China and Europe, bringing goods from Eurasia to Shanghai.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the "Belt and Road" Initiative. On October 8, the launch ceremony of the Shanghai-Kunming Lancang-Mekong International Freight Service took place in Kunming, Yunnan Province. This freight train will facilitate transportation between Vientiane, Kunming, and Shanghai, further diversifying trade links between China and ASEAN countries.