China’s transportation sector has achieved a significant milestone with the inaugural launch of a dedicated express cotton freight train service from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The pioneering service departed from Aksu railway station on January 26, 2026, transporting 1,395 metric tons of cotton destined for Binzhou in Shandong Province, eastern China.
Operated by China Railway Urumqi Group Co., Ltd., this specialized freight service represents a transformative development in textile industry logistics. The express trains maintain operational speeds of 120 kilometers per hour utilizing premium, well-maintained carriages specifically configured for cotton transportation. Customized loading protocols have been implemented at each warehouse facility to preserve cargo integrity throughout the journey.
The strategic initiative provides substantial benefits to both cotton producers and manufacturing enterprises. Agricultural suppliers gain enhanced shipping convenience while downstream textile manufacturers can optimize production scheduling with improved supply chain predictability.
Yang Baofu, General Manager of China National Cotton Exchange, revealed expansion plans for the service, indicating future routes will extend to Zhengzhou in Henan Province and Shanghai metropolitan area. These developments are projected to significantly reduce overall logistics expenses across the cotton industry value chain, strengthening China’s position in global textile markets while supporting economic development in Xinjiang region.