New trucking routes link southwest China with Vietnam to cut cargo costs

(ECNS) -- Two cross-border trucking routes linking Wenshan in southwest China's Yunnan Province with Vietnam's Tuyen Quang Province began operations on Wednesday, allowing goods from Kunming and Wenshan to reach Vietnam's interior without being transferred to other trucks at the border.

The new routes run from Wenshan through China's Tianbao Port and Vietnam's Thanh Thuy border gate to Ha Giang, with one extending further to Tuyen Quang. The service uses a "one-container-throughout" model, with cargo carried in the same container across the border and freight available for both outbound and return trips.

"Each truckload now saves around 1,500 yuan in one-way costs," said Tian Hui, a Wenshan business representative. The savings are equivalent to about $225.

Truck driver Luo Lin said the direct service saves more than three hours per one-way trip. Previously, trucks often returned empty after delivering goods to Vietnam. Now, they can carry cargo in both directions, boosting drivers' earnings.

Located in southeastern Yunnan and bordering Vietnam, Wenshan is a key gateway for China's trade with Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries.

(By Gong Weiwei)