China Customs will open more border crossing points for TIR, kick starting trade flows and reinforcing overland trade to and from China. As important Belt and Road crossings, the stations will play a pivotal role in connecting China to Central Asia, West Asia, Russia and Europe.
The milestone demonstrates strong commitment from China Customs to developing TIR in China and using it as an effective tool to facilitate trade. It sends a powerful signal to the world that China continues to open its markets.
The four crossing points with Kazakhstan designated to start TIR operations from 25 March 2019 are Maikapchagai – Jimunai, Dostyk – Alashankou, Kolzhat – Dulata and Bakhty – Baketu. Together with Khorgos, which opened in May 2018, this move means that all five China-Kazakhstan border crossings will be fully TIR operational.
With both China and Kazakhstan endorsing the recent UN resolution on transport digitalisation and automation, this news also gathers momentum for the use of TIR’s digital tools and e-CMR across the region. IRU will facilitate training for the four border crossings to ensure smooth operations on site.
