Cross-border rail rallies regional connectivity
Driven by the BRI, growing transport network is increasing passenger, trade flows across Southeast Asia
As of September, it had operated over 2,400 train trips, carrying some 1 million tons of cargo, and introduced innovative intermodal routes such as the "Lancang-Mekong + China-Europe Railway" service, creating a direct rail corridor from Southeast Asia to Europe.
"Each morning during durian season, trains loaded with Thai durian arrive at Kunming's container terminal," said Zhang Dehuan, deputy general manager of an international logistics operator based in Kunming.
"We unload, sort and repackage them for transport to major Chinese cities like Chengdu, Guangzhou and Zhengzhou. At the peak of the season, we handle over 100 containers a day."
The influx of tropical fruit has reshaped markets. Premium Thai durian that once cost 1,500-1,600 yuan per box now sells for about 800 yuan — a price drop locals jokingly call achieving "durian freedom".
"Riding the Lancang-Mekong Express, Thai durian reaches Kunming in three days and Lao bananas reach Beijing in seven," Zhang said. "Our refrigerated containers are so popular that they're always fully booked."
To meet the booming demand, Yunnan has upgraded its logistics system. At the Yunnan Hongyun International Logistics Park in Kunming, a 16-hectare hub has been built adjacent to the China Railway container terminal. New facilities integrate freight yards with warehousing, packaging and cold-chain storage.
"This model lowers logistics costs and boosts cargo turnover," said Li Rongping, the park's director. "By linking rail and road more efficiently, we're building a one-stop logistics platform that better serves regional trade."
Customs efficiency has also improved. Under a new "express rail clearance" model offering 24/7 pre-scheduled services, companies can complete customs declarations before trains arrive.
Containers pass through the Mohan checkpoint in as little as 2-5 hours, down from as much as 40 hours previously. Cross-border freight trains through Mohan have risen from two per day at launch to 18, peaking at 23, reinforcing its role as China's busiest rail port to ASEAN.
