A direct freight train linking Wuhan in central China and Lyons in France began operation on Wednesday 6 April.
The train, loaded with mechanical, electronic and chemical products, left China through Alataw Pass in Xinjiang, the westernmost Chinese region, and pass through Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland and Germany before reaching its destination.
It will take 16 days to complete the 11,300-kilometre journey, slashing the usual 50 to 60 days to transport from Wuhan to France by sea freight.
Automobile products, wine and agricultural products made in France are expected to be imported to China using the train.
Catering to the Belt and Road Initiative, the train is expected to further promote China’s cooperation with Eurasian countries.
Several Chinese cities including Chongqing, Wuhan, Zhengzhou, Changsha and Shenyang have rail freight services to Europe.