New Cross-Border Road Transport saves 1 day per truck
On May 14, the launch ceremony for the China-Vietnam (Kunming-Hanoi) international road transport route was held at the Kunming Comprehensive Bonded Zone. For the first time, Chinese freight vehicles carrying CBTA (Greater Mekong Subregion Cross-Border Transport Agreement) permits will enter Vietnam’s inland regions, significantly improving cross-border transport efficiency and injecting new momentum into regional connectivity and economic development.
The event, running from May 14 to 16, involves the transport of goods such as electronic components, fresh vegetables, and general merchandise via two routes:
Route 1: A convoy of 12 trucks and 1 bus from Guangxi and Qingdao, Shandong, departs from Nanning Comprehensive Bonded Zone, exits China via the Youyi Guan (Friendship Pass) border checkpoint in Guangxi, enters Vietnam via the Huu Nghi border gate, and passes through Lang Son, Bac Giang, and Bac Ninh before reaching Hanoi. The total distance is 400 km, with an estimated travel time of 2 days.
Route 2: A convoy of 6 trucks and 1 bus from Yunnan departs from Kunming Comprehensive Bonded Zone, exits China via the Hekou border checkpoint in Yunnan, enters Vietnam via the Lao Cai border gate, and travels through Lao Cai, Yen Bai, and Viet Tri before arriving in Hanoi. The total distance is 700 km, also with an estimated travel time of 2 days.
A representative from the provincial transport authority explained that the new route adopts a "one-container, one-vehicle" direct transport model, leveraging the advantages of road transport—point-to-point efficiency, reduced handling, and lower costs. Compared to traditional methods, each truck saves 1 day in transit time and CNY 1,000 in costs, significantly improving logistics efficiency.
Moving forward, Chinese and Vietnamese transport authorities will strengthen cooperation, facilitate CBTA implementation, promote regular cross-border road transport, streamline customs clearance, and enhance bilateral trade and people-to-people exchanges—contributing to shared prosperity and sustainable development.