This marks the launch of a new centralised procurement and direct transportation model connecting key wholesale markets in both countries
The first convoy of refrigerated trucks carrying fruits and vegetables set off from Urumqi, the capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, bound for Almaty, Kazakhstan. This marks the launch of a new centralised procurement and direct transportation model connecting key wholesale markets in both countries.
Under this new cooperation framework, the convoys depart from the Xinjiang Jiuding Trade and Logistics Corporation’s wholesale fruit and vegetable market in Urumqi, operating through the TIR (International Road Transport) system. The goods reach the Altyn Orda market in Almaty via the Khorgos checkpoint within 24 hours, saving at least 12 hours compared to traditional transportation methods.
According to the Xinhua news agency, the model follows principles of centralised procurement and inspection, with customs clearance and quarantine procedures conducted directly within the market area. The TIR system ensures that cargo is sealed at departure and opened only upon arrival, reducing inspection times by 60 per cent.
The Jiuding wholesale market, a key agricultural hub in Xinjiang, described this new approach as a breakthrough in fruit and vegetable exports and expressed its commitment to further simplifying customs procedures and deepening cooperation with Kazakhstan in agricultural trade.
