(ECNS) -- The first direct China-Europe Railway Express freight train departed from Baoji in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province on Tuesday, headed for Nizhny Novgorod of Russia. The launch makes Baoji as the province’s second logistics hub with direct rail links to Europe, following the provincial capital, Xi’an.
Carrying 55 containers of locally manufactured auto parts, including engines, chassis, and tires, valued at over 7.12 million yuan (about $1 million), the train will travel via the Alashankou port in Xinjiang to reach a Russian automotive plant.
The new direct route offers a faster and safer alternative to traditional maritime shipping. The rail journey takes just 15 to 18 days, compared with over 40 days by sea. It also minimizes cargo damage by protecting high-precision parts from sea moisture and avoiding multiple transfers at coastal ports.
Previously, Baoji only received inbound European trains and operated Central Asia routes. The inaugural direct freight train from Baoji to Europe successfully fills the city’ gap for lacking local outbound trains to Europe. In 2025, Baoji has processed 742 European and Central Asian trains, marking a 151.3% year-on-year increase.
(By Intern Lin Qiaochu, Zhang Dongfang)
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