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].