In a noteworthy advancement, the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) has officially commenced transporting trade goods from China to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through Pakistan’s land-sea route under the Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) system.
This achievement represents a pivotal step in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, offering a shorter and more efficient trade route for goods traveling from China to Gulf countries, as reported by state-run Radio Pakistan.
Under this initiative, a truck loaded with electronic equipment has departed Kashgar, Xinjiang, bound for Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port via Pakistan.
The journey commenced with a stop at the NLC Dry Port in Sost, Gilgit–Baltistan, where a ceremonial event marked this historic milestone.
The NLC trucks will transport the goods from Kashgar to Karachi within just eight days. From Karachi, the container will be shipped to Jebel Ali Port by sea, a process requiring an additional two days. This efficient route reduces the transit time from Xinjiang, China, to the UAE to just 10 days, compared to approximately a month by sea.
This newly established China-to-UAE trade route through Pakistan brings significant benefits to the business community.
“It is now much more convenient to transport goods from Kashgar, Xinjiang, to other countries. Customs has provided substantial support, resulting in a growing number of customers from various nations. Our business has expanded into Pakistan and Afghanistan,” said the operations in-charge for NLC’s China Project Department.
He further noted, “I believe the volume of trade will increase steadily, with annual transportation expected to exceed 1,000 vehicle trips.”
The Khunjerab Pass has emerged as a key trade gateway between Europe and South Asia. Previously, it primarily facilitated bilateral trade, supporting imports of textiles, agricultural goods, and essential commodities while exporting herbs and plants.
“This accomplishment represents a significant leap forward in operationalizing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), leveraging the shortest and most efficient trade route from China to the Gulf region via Pakistan,” the NLC stated.
The corporation further emphasized that this milestone highlights the strategic importance of the Khunjerab Pass as a year-round trade gateway for the region.
