In the first two months of 2026, rail freight transportation along the China–Europe route showed notable acceleration, confirming the growing role of overland transport corridors in global trade. According to the Association of Kazakhstan Freight Rail Carriers, 3,501 freight trains were dispatched in January–February, with total cargo volume reaching 352,000 TEU.
This represents a 32% increase in the number of trains and a 25% rise in cargo volume compared to the same period last year. Experts note that such significant growth is driven both by the expansion of trade and economic ties between Asia and Europe and by improved efficiency in logistics processes.
One of the key growth points was the Alashankou border crossing, through which 1,498 trains bound for Europe and Central Asia were processed during this period—24.1% more than a year earlier. The increase in capacity was made possible by optimized scheduling and more flexible responses to changes in market demand.
Overall, the China–Europe rail service network continues to expand. Today, it connects 128 cities in China with 229 destinations in Europe, as well as more than 100 cities across Asia. The high traffic intensity—with trains departing on average every 30 minutes or more frequently—indicates strong and sustained demand for this mode of transport.
Analysts emphasize that the development of Eurasian rail routes is becoming an important factor in diversifying global supply chains. Amid instability in maritime logistics and geopolitical risks, the China–Europe rail corridor is strengthening its position as a reliable and competitive alternative.