In a significant development for agricultural trade corridors, a 450-ton seed-laden freight train has inaugurated a new direct route from China’s northwestern Gansu Province to European markets. The landmark departure occurred on December 24 from Jiuquan railway logistics hub, carrying 24 containers filled with vegetable and flower seeds destined for Italy and the Netherlands.
This pioneering shipment utilizes China’s Western Land-Sea Corridor, an integrated rail-sea transportation network that substantially enhances trade efficiency between inland regions and international markets. Officials emphasize that this strategic corridor reduces both transit time and operational costs compared to traditional transportation routes, providing competitive advantages for Chinese agricultural exporters.
The shipment represents more than mere commercial transaction—it symbolizes the deepening agricultural cooperation between China and Belt and Road Initiative participant nations. Gansu Province, known for its advanced seed cultivation and agricultural research capabilities, is positioned to become a crucial node in global agricultural supply chains through such infrastructure developments.
This new freight service demonstrates the continuing expansion of China-Europe rail connections beyond traditional manufacturing goods into high-value agricultural products. The successful operation establishes a precedent for future specialized agricultural shipments along the Silk Road Economic Belt, potentially transforming how perishable and time-sensitive agricultural products move between Asia and Europe.