Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent trend of highways in China reaching their toll expiration dates and the implications of these changes on the transportation infrastructure and economic efficiency. It highlights the shift towards free passage on certain highways and the potential for a broader movement in this direction across the country [4][10][21]. Summary by Sections Highway Toll Cancellations - Recent announcements from Sichuan indicate that the Chengmian and Chengbei highways will stop charging tolls, marking a significant shift in the western region of China [4][6]. - This follows the cancellation of tolls on the Guangzhou North Ring Highway, which became the first major highway to do so after 30 years of operation [6][9]. - The trend of highways reaching their toll expiration dates is becoming more common, with several highways built in the late 20th century now ceasing toll collection [9][10]. Historical Context and Regulations - The first batch of highways built in the 1980s and 1990s is now reaching the maximum toll collection period, which is capped at 30 years for operational highways [11][19]. - The article notes that the "loan for road construction, toll for repayment" policy initiated in the late 1980s facilitated the rapid expansion of highway infrastructure in China [11][18]. - Current regulations stipulate that the maximum toll collection period for operational highways is 25 years, with a 30-year limit for those in central and western regions [11][18]. Economic Implications - The cancellation of tolls on highways is seen as a potential catalyst for economic efficiency, reducing logistics costs and enhancing domestic circulation [21]. - The article emphasizes that while some highways have been profitable, others in less developed areas struggle to cover maintenance costs, leading to discussions about extending toll periods under the guise of "reconstruction" [14][21]. - The future of highway tolls is uncertain, with ongoing debates about modifying regulations to extend toll collection periods beyond the current limits [14][21]. Future Outlook - The article suggests that while a complete transition to free highways is unlikely in the short term, the gradual cessation of tolls is a growing trend that aligns with national economic strategies [21]. - The goal of achieving a "county-level highway" network by 2035 indicates significant future investment and expansion in highway infrastructure, which will require substantial funding [19][21].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent trend of highway toll cancellations in China, highlighting the implications for economic efficiency and infrastructure maintenance as the first batch of highways built in the late 20th century reaches their toll expiration dates [4][16]. Group 1: Recent Developments in Highway Toll Cancellations - Sichuan has announced the cancellation of tolls on Chengmian Expressway and Chengbei Exit Expressway, marking a significant shift in the western region [4]. - The Guangzhou North Ring Expressway, which has been operational for 30 years, also recently ceased toll collection, making it the first major expressway in the region to do so [9][10]. - Other expressways, such as Huijia, Guangfo, and Wuhuang, have previously canceled tolls, indicating a growing trend [13][14]. Group 2: Historical Context and Regulatory Framework - The first batch of expressways built in the 1980s and 1990s is now reaching the end of their maximum toll collection periods, which is set at 30 years for operating expressways [6][16]. - The regulatory framework stipulates that the maximum toll collection period for operating expressways is 30 years, while government-funded roads are limited to 20 years [6][23]. - The "loan for road construction, toll for repayment" policy initiated in the late 1980s facilitated the rapid expansion of expressways across the country [22]. Group 3: Economic Implications and Future Outlook - The cancellation of tolls is seen as a necessary step towards reducing logistics costs and enhancing economic efficiency, especially as the country aims to strengthen domestic circulation [43][45]. - Despite the trend towards toll cancellations, the article suggests that a fully toll-free highway system is unlikely in the short term due to ongoing maintenance costs and the need for funding for new infrastructure projects [35][43]. - The future of highway infrastructure will likely involve a shift from new construction to maintenance, reflecting a broader change in economic strategy [34].