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China has commenced the operations of the first freight train from Xining, China to Almaty, Kazakhstan, aiming to boost trade between China and the Central Asia region. The train departed from the Xining Comprehensive Bonded Zone, carrying white goods and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to Almaty, Kazakhstan via the Horgos Port.

This initiative aims to streamline the entry of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau’s specialty products—such as agricultural and livestock products, biopharmaceuticals, and clean energy materials—into the Central Asian market, fostering provincial economic growth.

To ensure smooth operations, Xihai Customs implemented a tailored supervision plan. This included establishing a "green channel," creating a dedicated window for the Central Asia freight train and introducing measures such as "appointment-based customs clearance" and preliminary transshipment data review. These efforts aim to ensure efficient and fast customs clearance.

According to customs statistics, China exported approximately 57,790 tons of PVC to Kazakhstan last year, representing about 2.5% of China’s total PVC exports. Industry experts believe that advancements in railway delivery will streamline cargo transportation and mitigate shipping risks.

Written by: Kat Yun Yun

Edited by: Rochelle Nguyen