Inner Mongolia Boosts Transport Links with SW China via ILSTC

Chongqing - A Development and Reform Commission representative of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region recently emphasized that the region has enhanced transport capacity and logistics by capitalizing on its geographic advantage, positioning Hohhot as a key hub. 

These efforts aim to strengthen connections with Southwest China through the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (ILSTC).

Inner Mongolia, with strategic connections between China, Russia, and Mongolia, is developing a northern border logistics port to strengthen connections and enhance its role in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The China-Europe Railway Express is departing from Baotou, the largest city by urban population in Inner Mongolia, China. (Photo/Li Yongtao)

In August 2019, China's National Development and Reform Commission designated Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, a key logistics hub in northern China, under the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor plan. This designation highlighted the region's strategic role in linking China to the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor.

The Qisumu Bonded Logistics Center (Type B) in Ulanqab, a prefecture-level city in south-central Inner Mongolia, China. (Photo/Li Yongtao)

Key projects include the Uliji and Ganqimaodu ports, which link to Chongqing, the operational center of ILSTC, as well as the Manzhouli-Harbin, Erenhot-Qinhuangdao, and Erenhot-Taiyuan channels. These corridors serve as vital pathways for enhancing service capacity along the BRI's northern and northeastern routes.

Erenhot Port, China's largest land port on the China-Mongolia border, is a vital BRI node and the first 24-hour road freight port open to Mongolia.

Besides, Inner Mongolia has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, with a 14,800-kilometer railway network, representing about 10% of China's total. Key high-speed railways, like the Hohhot-Zhangjiakou route, have significantly improved regional connectivity. In 2023 alone, the region invested 19.4 billion yuan (USD 2.73 billion) in transportation infrastructure projects.

Moreover, Inner Mongolia's expansive highway network, covering 219,400 kilometers, now sees all major national highways fully operational, reinforcing its position as a crucial transportation hub.

Inner Mongolia currently hosts six national logistics hubs and three national cold chain bases, with Hohhot as a key logistics center. Major projects, including a new 34 billion yuan airport set for completion in 2024, have established Hohhot as a comprehensive hub, integrating road, rail, and air transport.

Additionally, in partnership with Xi'an International Inland Port Investment & Development Group, Inner Mongolia established a China-Europe Railway Express distribution center in Ulanqab to streamline customs clearance. This initiative not only underscores the region's commitment to enhancing its logistics capabilities but also facilitates greater trade efficiency along the Belt and Road Initiative. In 2023, Inner Mongolia organized 429 China-Europe Railway Express trains, marking a significant 73.7% year-on-year increase, highlighting this corridor's growing importance in connecting Southwest China with European markets.