新疆航空口岸上半年国际货运量同比增长7倍——货机穿梭，“空中丝路”更繁忙

Core Viewpoint - Xinjiang has significantly increased its international cargo transport capabilities in 2023, opening new air routes and enhancing logistics efficiency, thereby strengthening its role as a key hub in the Belt and Road Initiative [2][3][8]. Group 1: International Cargo Routes - Xinjiang has opened 8 new international cargo routes in the first half of the year, with a total international cargo volume reaching 47,400 tons, representing a 7-fold increase year-on-year [2]. - The total number of international cargo routes has reached 36, covering 21 countries, with 2,574 international cargo flights operated in the first half of the year, an increase of approximately 6 times compared to the same period last year [3]. Group 2: Infrastructure Development - The new North Terminal Area at Urumqi Tianshan International Airport has doubled the airport's capacity, featuring a 500,000 square meter terminal and 177 parking spaces, allowing for nearly 1,000 flight operations daily [4]. - An investment of 467 million yuan has been made to upgrade infrastructure, enhancing cargo handling capabilities and significantly reducing customs clearance times for international cargo flights [4]. Group 3: Logistics Efficiency - The "Yuexin Express" rail-air intermodal service has improved logistics efficiency by over 15% compared to road transport, with a total transit time of 7 days for cross-border e-commerce goods [5]. - The integration of information systems for customs and logistics has been established to streamline operations and improve service efficiency [5]. Group 4: Trade Growth - Trade volume between Xinjiang and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative reached 237.59 billion yuan in the first half of the year, marking a year-on-year growth of 17.9% [8]. - The establishment of new fixed cargo routes and the presence of 21 international freight forwarding companies in Xinjiang indicate a growing logistics industry and increased foreign trade opportunities [7][8].