China-Europe freight trains offer economic lifeline amidst pandemic

The New Silk Road has proven its efficiency by keeping supply chains running during the pandemic. On Tuesday, the fifth European Silk Road Summit began in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, with over 300 rail freight professionals attending the event to discuss growth opportunities along the New Silk Road and China-Europe rail freight's role during COVID-19.

There was no impact of the pandemic on rail container traffic along the China-Europe route via Russia this year. During January - September 2021, TEUs rose 48 percent year-over-year, at 568700 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), exceeding the total for 2020.

The rail industry has set new records and acquired a reputation for reliability and resiliency. 79 times as many containers have been transported along this route in the past year.

China-Europe freight trains have recorded more than 40000 trips since the first train started on its journey from Chongqing in southwest China in March 2011.

In an effort to speed up post-pandemic recovery, countries along the international freight route are showing a growing interest in partnering on improving logistics chains.

The Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of Finland, Ville Skinnari, pointed out that rail freight has a clear sustainability advantage over other modes of transport because of its lower carbon emissions.

For companies, it is essential that they can add value with speed, diversify their logistical chain, and have alternative means of transport. Especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, companies are more aware of the logistical chain risk, Skinnari said.

relevant web page Over the course of the pandemic, tens of thousands of tonnes of medical supplies were sent across the route, with special trains delivering surgical masks, gloves, water-soluble bags, and contactless gel dispensers to more than 50 countries.

Germany's Prussian Society honorary president, Volker Tschapke, called the train route an anti-pandemic Green Passage, noting that most of Europe was frightened by the first wave of COVID. (Medical) shortages were seen everywhere.  https://topalpha.de/ It saves lives to have train routes.

Ivan Ruzbacky, president of PKP Cargo Connect, said that the new connection between Wroclaw and Chinese cities is a significant step forward in the Belt and Road Initiative.

It offers a unique opportunity to fit into global supply chains, he said, adding, In turn this translates into a positive view from international customers, as well as development and expansion opportunities.