The multimodal transport center of the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area (SCODA) in Qingdao, Shandong, has handled over 300,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) this year, an impressive 29.02 percent year-on-year increase. This milestone underscores the area's advancing multimodal transport system and its development as an open logistics hub.

Container throughput is a key indicator of a logistics hub's cargo handling capacity. As a vital "golden channel" linking SCO countries with the Asia-Pacific market, the China-Europe freight train service has flourished here. From January to November this year, the zone operated 1,126 China-Europe freight trains, up 17.2 percent, transporting 92,310 TEUs of goods, also a 17.2 percent increase.

To enhance efficiency, the area, in collaboration with customs and port authorities, has improved the SCO Express clearance model. This initiative extends port functions inland, allowing goods to undergo inspection locally, cutting port stay time by 35 percent and improving clearance efficiency by 60 percent. Furthermore, a new 25,000-square-meter smart storage yard is under construction and set to boost operational capacity this year.

To date, the zone has launched 32 international and domestic rail routes connecting 23 countries and 54 cities across the SCO and countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. It has operated over 5,100 China-Europe freight trains, including specialized and customized services for major enterprises, supporting more than 7,000 trading companies.

"The zone will continue leveraging its public service attributes, enhancing the multimodal transport hub, strengthening the China-Europe freight train brand, and building a modern logistics network. We aim to foster the integrated development of logistics, trade, and industry, strengthening our role as a key 'maritime outlet' connecting SCO countries with the Asia-Pacific market," said Zang Yuanqi, an official with the area's administrative committee.

SCODA in Qingdao launches 32 international and domestic rail routes connecting 23 countries and 54 cities. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]