A Yixin'ou freight train departs from Yiwu. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Yiwu Customs reported a notable surge in the first two months of this year for the Yixin'ou (Yiwu-Xinjiang-Europe) freight train, with the value of imports and exports reaching 63.2 billion yuan ($8.74 billion), an impressive 18.6 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Bao Yuefei, head of Yitong'ou Logistics Co Ltd, underscored the importance of the freight train's efficiency in customs clearance, which has led to substantial savings in terms of both time and costs for businesses. With each shipment experiencing reduced clearance times, cargo turnover rates have significantly improved.

As the Yixin'ou freight train celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, its remarkable growth is evident, expanding from its very first route to a network of 19 routes connecting a multitude of cities and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. With over 50 countries and more than 160 cities benefiting from its services, the freight train continues to act as a vital conduit for trade and connectivity, further bolstering economic ties across regions.