On July 10, 2024, the Xiamen Area of the Fujian Free Trade Zone and the Qingbaijiang Area of the Sichuan Free Trade Zone signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement. They will collaborate on logistics, cross-regional innovation, business environment improvement, and industrial development.
A strategic cooperation framework agreement is signed between two free trade zones. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn]
The cooperation aims to strengthen linked development, promote resource flow and efficiency, and support the high-level opening and quality development of both zones. Key initiatives include promoting China-Europe freight trains and sea-rail intermodal cooperation, accelerating new land-sea corridor construction, and deepening industrial and innovation cooperation.
"We will use this strategic cooperation to deepen industrial cooperation and cross-regional innovation," said the person in charge of the Xiamen Free Trade Zone. "By leveraging our advantages, we aim to promote the free flow and optimal allocation of resources."
At the signing event, businesses from both regions signed agreements on port intermodal cooperation, China-Europe freight train cooperation, and joining the "Silk Road Maritime" alliance.
Since 2016, the two zones have built a strong foundation for cooperation, particularly in intercity logistics and intermodal transport systems. By June 2024, Xiamen had completed 18,000 TEUs of intermodal transport "one order system" business and will collaborate to establish local standards for these services.
Officials stated that the collaboration will facilitate information exchange, mutual benefits, and broader development opportunities for enterprises, boosting the economic and social development of both regions.