Pingtan, a strategic gateway to Taiwan, has emerged as a bustling hub for international trade, boasting impressive growth for the first half of this year. According to recent statistics, the port handled a staggering 267,300 tonnes of foreign trade goods, marking a 57.47% surge from the previous year. Furthermore, the movement of import-export containers reached 36,000 TEUs, reflecting a healthy 22.63% increase.

"The overall flow of entries and exits at Pingtan Port has remained stable, with an average of approximately 11 vessels docking weekly," shared port official Wang Zhuhai, highlighting the port's efficiency and consistency. Taiwan remains the primary destination for Pingtan's foreign trade activities, with a diverse range of goods including mail parcels, express packages, panels, agricultural products, and seafood traversing the waters.

Pingtan's strategic location has been harnessed to forge stronger economic ties with Taiwan, particularly in ocean-going fishing vessels and cross-border e-commerce. The latter has emerged as a shining star, with the value of cross-border e-commerce transactions exceeding 10 billion yuan for two consecutive years. "We're leveraging our unique geographical advantages to build a major trade corridor between the two sides of the Straits, with e-commerce playing a pivotal role," remarked an official from the local authorities.

To further enhance its competitiveness, Pingtan has implemented measures to optimize its operational environment. The port operates under a 7x24-hour inspection regime, ensuring swift and seamless clearance for incoming and outgoing vessels. This commitment to efficiency has not only accelerated the flow of goods but also reinforced Pingtan's position as an attractive destination for international traders.

Moreover, Pingtan's cross-border e-commerce direct export service has witnessed a surge in popularity, with regular Pingtan-Taiwan sea-air combined shipments. The Taipei Express ferry, laden with e-commerce parcels, departs from Pingtan's Jinjing Port, sails to Taipei Harbor, and then transfers the goods to Taiwan's Taoyuan Airport for onward flights to Europe and the Americas. This innovative model harnesses the cost-effectiveness of sea transport with the speed of air freight, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency to e-commerce enterprises.

With a steadfast focus on optimizing its operations and harnessing its unique location, Pingtan stands poised to continue thriving as a key player in international trade and a beacon of economic prosperity in the region.

                                                                                                                                                       (Source: Fujian Daily)