Smart ports boost China-ASEAN trade for Guangxi FTZ

Guangxi Free Trade Zone (FTZ) is accelerating China-ASEAN trade through the use of smart port facilities, enabling "15-second clearance" and one-stop customs procedures, local authorities said.

Utilizing advanced technologies like AI and big data, these smart ports have streamlined cargo inspection, document verification, and customs declaration processes.

The average clearance time for goods has dropped by over 60 percent compared to five years ago, significantly cutting logistics costs.

Key ports in the FTZ, such as Qinzhou Port, now handle over 80 percent of China-ASEAN container trade in Guangxi. In the first half of 2025, bilateral trade via these ports reached 280 billion yuan ($38.9 billion), up 12.3 percent year-on-year, driven by efficient clearance.

Businesses are praising the seamless services. A fruit importer from Thailand said, "Smart systems reduce paperwork and waiting time, allowing our products to reach Chinese markets while they're still fresh and at a lower cost."

The smart port project, part of Guangxi's efforts to deepen China-ASEAN cooperation, also integrates with regional initiatives like the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, enhancing connectivity.

Plans are underway to expand digitalization to more border checkpoints, aiming to boost annual trade volume to over 600 billion yuan by 2026.