China opened a 24-hour cargo clearance pilot at Irkeshtam Port on Sunday, pushing forward China–Central Asia trade goals. Officials announced the launch at Xinjiang’s southernmost border crossing, connecting China with Kyrgyzstan. It became the second port in the region to operate nonstop, after Horgos. The upgrade marked a new phase in trade facilitation in southern Xinjiang. Demand for cross-border transport continues rising sharply across the region.
Authorities introduced shift-based staffing to keep the port running without pause. On-arrival vehicle inspections now support tighter control and faster cargo movement. Officials processed 966 freight trucks between Sunday and Monday morning. By Sunday, the port had logged over 105,000 traveler crossings in 2024. Officials also reported over 98,000 vehicle trips—nearly double last year’s figures.
Experts say the changes align with China’s broader economic strategy. Railway analyst Sun Zhang said the 24-hour clearance improves the trade significantly. He called the move vital for turning Kashgar into a foreign trade hub. It supports the “dual circulation” model that promotes domestic strength and foreign outreach. Irkeshtam Port now stands at the center of that strategy.
Increased access through Irkeshtam will boost economic ties with Central and West Asia. Traffic already exceeded 1,000 daily crossings earlier in May. Officials aim to strengthen China–Central Asia trade by improving infrastructure and customs operations. They also want to attract more investment into border regions. Reliable ports could offset global disruptions and encourage long-term regional partnerships.
Official figures, therefore, highlight a steady and impressive rise in cross-border commerce. Moreover, trade between China and Central Asia reached a record $94.8 billion in 2024, reflecting growing interdependence. In addition, China’s total investment in the region surpassed $30 billion this year, spanning sectors such as energy, logistics, infrastructure, and digital platforms. Furthermore, officials emphasized that cross-border e-commerce, upgraded freight corridors, and better customs integration are strengthening long-term economic ties. Consequently, Irkeshtam’s new 24-hour clearance model adds momentum, signaling Beijing’s deepening commitment to China–Central Asia trade and its ambition to accelerate westward economic expansion through southern Xinjiang.
