Rail logistics spurs China-Nepal trade

A freight train carrying 18 40-foot containers loaded with 486 metric tons of goods arrived at Shigatse West Station in the Xizang autonomous region recently, marking another milestone in China-Nepal trade cooperation, said China Railway Qinghai-Xizang Group.

The shipment, including curtains, hardware accessories, shoes, hats and general merchandise, was unloaded before being transported by road to Nepal via Shigatse International Land Port and Zhangmu Port.

The smooth delivery not only highlights the expanding variety of products in China-Nepal trade, but also underscores the efficiency of cross-border railway logistics channels connecting China and South Asian nations, injecting fresh momentum into regional economic prosperity.

Since the deepening of the Belt and Road Initiative, railway logistics has emerged as a "golden channel "for China-Nepal trade. Thanks to the transport mode's efficiency, stability and cost-effectiveness, more commodities — such as bulk grains, new energy vehicles and daily necessities — are now shipped to Shigatse via the Qinghai-Xizang and Lhasa-Shigatse railways before being exported to South Asian markets.

This has significantly shortened overland journeys from China's coastal areas to South Asia, giving enterprises an edge in tapping foreign markets.

Shigatse Railway Freight Yard, a key node in the trade network, has upgraded its operations in recent years by optimizing loading schedules, improving warehouses and streamlining multimodal transport links.

These efforts have boosted efficiency and cut logistics costs, turning the yard into a vital "transfer station" and "accelerator" for China-Nepal trade, and providing round-the-clock support for bilateral economic cooperation.

Geng Liuyan, head of the freight yard, said there is a growing volume and diversity of goods transported to Nepal via Shigatse, ranging from building materials to daily necessities.

"Cross-border cargo volume has seen steady annual growth, and this 18-container shipment is a vivid example of our diversified trade development," said Geng.

Wang Fei, head of Golmud Longrui Trading Co, expressed satisfaction with the services.

Since starting exports via the yard in 2025, his company has benefited from tailored logistics solutions.

"This year, the railway department has tailored a logistics solution specifically for us, taking into account the characteristics of our diverse range of goods, high stacking requirements and strict safety standards, making it possible for various types of goods to be exported collectively," Wang said, adding that daily necessities like curtains, hardware accessories and other goods are highly favored by consumers in Nepal.

As China-Nepal trade expands, China Railway Qinghai-Xizang Group is on its way to building a professional team and extensive services network to strengthen Shigatse's role as a hub, supporting Xizang in becoming an open highland facing South Asia.