五年连跨三个大关 上合何以成中国外贸“新引擎”

Core Insights - The trade volume between China and Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member countries has significantly increased, reaching historical highs and becoming a new engine for China's foreign trade growth [1][2][5] Trade Volume Growth - In the first seven months of this year, the trade volume between China and SCO member countries reached $293.18 billion, marking a historical high for the same period [2] - By 2024, the total import and export volume is projected to reach 3.65 trillion yuan, which is 36 times the volume at the inception of the SCO [2] Logistics and Connectivity - A robust cross-border logistics system, including rail, road, and air transport, has been established to facilitate trade between China and SCO member countries [2][3] - The China-Europe Railway Express has completed its 110,000th trip, with a cumulative cargo value exceeding $450 billion, enhancing connectivity [2] - The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan rail intermodal transport has reduced transportation time by approximately 5 days and costs by nearly 30% [2] Trade Facilitation and E-commerce - Trade facilitation measures have improved significantly, with customs clearance times at the Khorgos railway port reduced from 2-3 days to under 16 hours [4] - The SCO Economic and Trade Service Platform has attracted 22,000 businesses, facilitating seamless connections for trade [4] - The e-commerce market among SCO member countries is expected to exceed $3.2 trillion in 2024, accounting for over half of the global market [4] Regional Cooperation and Development - China's role as the second-largest economy has positioned it as a key driver of trade growth within the SCO, aligning with the development needs of member countries [5][6] - The SCO promotes open trade policies, including tariff reductions and expanded port access, addressing the needs of member countries facing high tariffs from the U.S. [6] - The organization emphasizes mutual trust, benefit, equality, and consultation, contrasting with the unequal structures often seen in Western economic cooperation [6]