Since its launch, the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area, known as SCODA, has developed 125 institutional innovations, with 20 promoted nationally. It has hosted over 400 events and attracted industrial projects totaling 150 billion yuan ($21.1 billion). Trade with SCO countries has grown at an average annual rate of 56 percent, reinforcing its role as a cultural, economic, and logistical hub.

Secretary-General of the SCO Nurlan Yermekbayev praised Qingdao's growing magnetism in driving multilateral cooperation. Utilizing its comprehensive sea-rail-air-land logistics network, the area has launched 42 shipping routes and 223 air routes to SCO countries. It also operates 4,600 China-Europe freight trains, connecting 23 SCO nations and establishing consolidation centers in cities like Belgrade and Almaty.

EASTCOMTRANS (ECT), Kazakhstan's largest private railway company, set up its China headquarters in the zone this February.

"We received our business license just hours after signing," said Guo Hongliang, ECT's China general manager. The company has already transported 20,000 metric tons of Kazakh wheat and feed to China, benefiting from Qingdao's efficient port and rail services.

Looking ahead, the area plans to expand trade by establishing overseas economic offices and optimizing supply chains.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), SCODA has increasingly served as a driving force for Qingdao's commercial, tourism, and cultural exchanges with SCO countries.

As a key platform, Qingdao has hosted significant events, including the SCO forum on people-to-people friendship and sister cities, the green development forum, and the women's forum. It has also been honored with the title "2024-2025 SCO Tourism and Culture Capital".

Qingdao in East China's Shandong province is designated as the tourism and cultural capital of the SCO for 2024 to 2025. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]