On October 25, a train loaded with automotive electronic components and other goods, known as the “ASEAN Express,” departed from the Central Station in Tuanjie Village, Chongqing. This inaugural service is expected to reach Poland in as little as two weeks.
This marks the first official run of the “ASEAN Express” from Chongqing, establishing a “seamless connection” between the New Western Land-Sea Corridor and the China-Europe Railway Express. The “ASEAN Express” initiated its journey on October 15 from Hanoi, Vietnam, and after reloading in Chongqing, it is now headed to Europe with an estimated total travel time of around 25 days—five to ten days shorter than traditional Asia-Europe transport options.
Historically, freight transport between ASEAN nations and Europe primarily relied on maritime routes. However, recent challenges in the international supply chain have highlighted the limitations of sea transport in terms of efficiency and pricing, leading to a growing preference for rail options.
The “ASEAN Express” is operated collaboratively by Chongqing Logistics Group’s Yuxinou (Chongqing) Supply Chain Management Co., Ltd. and Land-Sea New Corridor Operating Co., Ltd. A trial run from Thailand to Germany via Chongqing is planned for September 2024, which will contribute valuable operational experience to the formal launch of the “ASEAN Express.”
Liu Taiping, General Manager of Yuxinou (Chongqing) Supply Chain Management, noted that the “ASEAN Express” utilizes a streamlined “single order system,” allowing for a single point of booking, payment, and tracking for the cargo, which speeds up customs clearance. He expects to establish a regular weekly service as soon as possible.
Professor Zhou Bing from the Chengyu Economic Circle Construction Research Institute at Chongqing University of Technology emphasized that the “ASEAN Express” represents a dynamic approach to Chongqing’s openness and collaborative growth, showcasing the city’s proactive efforts in developing international logistics channels and regional cooperation. He believes this service will facilitate trade among enterprises in Chongqing, ASEAN, and Europe, promoting mutual market access and integration.
