The heterogeneous impact of China-Europe railway express on the efficiency of logistics industry in node cities

Purpose-The spatiotemporal compression effect of China-Europe Railway Express(CR-Express)can reduce the filow costs of resources between China's node cities.Additionally,it can break through the limitations of low-added-value marine products,significantly impacting the logistics industry efficiency.However,there are few literature verifying and analyzing its heterogeneity.This study explores the impact of CR-Express on the efficiency of logistics industry in node cities and analyzes the heterogeneity.Design/methodology/approach-First,this study uses panel data to measure the efficiency of node city logistics industry.Secondiy,this study discusses the impact of the opening of CR-Express on the efficiency of logistics industry in node cities based on the multi-period differential model.Finally,according to the node city difference,the sample city experimental group is grouped for heterogeneity analysis.Findings-The results show that CR-Express can promote the urban logistics industry efficiency,with an average effect of 4.55%.According to the urban characteristics classification,the heterogeneity analysis shows that the efficiency improvement effect of logistics industry in inland cities is more obvious.The improvement effect of node cities and central cities in central and western China is stronger,especially in the sample of megacities and type I big cities.Compared with non-value chain industrial products,the CR-Express has significant promotion effects on the logistics efficiency of the cities where main goods are value chain products.Originality/value-Under the background of double cycle development,this paper can provide a scientific basis for the investment benefit evaluation of CR-Express construction and the follow-up route planning.

China-Europe Bilateral Trade and Investment Cooperation Shows Great Momentum

At a recent regular press con­ference of the CCPIT,the CCPIT Research Institute released the EU Business Environment Report 2022/2023.The report shows that in 2022,China-EU relations have remained stable,with a good momentum behind bilateral trade and investment cooperation.The bilateral cooperation has huge potential and brings about many op­portunities.

Modernization and the Diversity of Human Rights Among Civilizations--Review of the 2023 China-europe Seminar on Human Rights

Human rights are an achievement of humanity and a symbol of progress.Respect for and protection of human rights are basic principles of modern civilization.Around the world,countries and regions have chosen different paths to modernization,which are rooted in their unique civilizations.to promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations,facilitate human rights exchanges and cooperation between different countries,and advance the global development of human rights,on September 20,2023,the 2023 China-europe Seminar on Human Rights was held in Rome,the capital of Italy.Under the theme of“Modernization and the Diversity of Human Rights Among Civilizations,”the seminar focused on discussing topics such as exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations and the development of modern human rights philosophy,modernization and the free and well-rounded development of every person,sustainable development in the process of modernization,and the evolution of the civilization of human rights in the digital age.participants reached the following consensuses at the event:First,the participants from various countries spoke highly of the great achievements that China has made in human rights cause and fully recognized China’s contributions in promoting the development and progress of the global human rights cause;Second,the participants from all countries agreed that it is necessary to discard the concept of“Western-centrism,”transcend the mindset of“cultural superiority,”promote human rights exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations on the basis of equality and mutual respect,and inject new impetus into the diversity of human rights among civilizations;third,participants reaffirmed that human rights represent an open concept,and that we should discuss the development of human rights with an open mind and jointly promote the progress of human rights in the world.

Temporal and spatial evolution of global major grain trade patterns

The complex and volatile international landscape has significantly impacted global grain supply security. This study uses a complex network analysis model to examine the evolution and trends of the global major grain trade from 1990 to 2020, focusing on network topology, centrality ranking, and community structure. There are three major findings. First, the global major grain trade network has expanded in scale, with a growing emphasis on diversification and balance. During the study period, the United States, Canada, China, and Brazil were the core nodes of the network. Grain-exporting countries were mainly situated in Asia, the Americas, and Europe, and importing countries in Asia, Africa, and Europe. Second, a significant increase in the number of high centrality countries with high export capacity occurred, benefiting from natural advantages such as fertile land and favorable climates. Third, the main global grain trade network is divided into four communities, with the Americas-Europe community being the largest and most widespread. The formation of the community pattern was influenced by geographic proximity, driven by the core exporting countries. Therefore, the world needs to enhance the existing trade model, promote the multi-polarization of the grain trade network, and establish a global vision for the future community. Countries and regions should participate actively in global grain trade security governance and institutional reform, expand trade links with other countries, and optimize import and export policies to reduce trade risks.

Impact of BRICS Trade Facilitation on China's Exports Using Cross-Border E-Commerce

With the rapid growth of the global digital economy, cross-border e-commerce, as an emerging form of trade, has gradually become a powerful engine to promote the development of global trade. BRICS is an important force in the global economy, and the progress of the BRICS countries' trade facilitation level has an important impact on the global trade environment. This paper conducts an in-depth study of the dynamic changes in BRICS trade facilitation from 2013 to 2022, and uses an extended gravity model to analyze the specific impact of this change on China's exports using cross-border e-commerce. The results show that although the BRICS countries have made some progress in trade facilitation, the overall level still needs to be improved, and there are obvious differences among member countries. However, the improvement of trade facilitation among BRICS countries has undoubtedly brought significant positive effects to China's exports using cross-border e-commerce.

Trade,Power,and Welfare:An International Economic Political Analysis of Great Power Competition

Traditional international trade theories seldom consider the pursuit of power as maintaining and enlarging a country's relative strength in the process of interstate competition.However,in the context of great power competition,the importance of power in the trade between advanced and latecomer countries has become more pronounced.Given this situation,we can establish a tractable and generalized international economic political framework for analyzing great power competition by introducing the power factor into classic two-country trade theory,treating the absolute welfare and relative welfare emphasized by economics and political science respectively as actors'dual objectives,and making use of game theory methods.It can be found that in a two-country game composed of an advanced and a latecomer country,the latter will prefer a strategy of"enhancing its own strength and rectifying its own weak points,"while the former will favor a strategy that""worsens the other's weak points and enhances the other's strengths."Once the technological gap that determines comparative advantage narrows,the advanced country will tend to totally suppress the latecomer and even"decouple"from it.

China-Europe Freight Train Promotes Bilateral Trade

On October 8,the'Belt and Road'Leading Group office published the'ChinaEurope Freight Train Development Plan',which is a fiveyear plan in accordance with China’s13th'Five-Year Plan'.The document formulated the major tasks for the construction of China-Europe freight train project for the next five years,and clarified three space layouts,including the China-Europe

World Trade Organization Reform and the Role of the Global South

Under the impact of unilateralism and protectionism,trade disputes among countries have increased in recent years,bringing uncertainty to global trade and jeopardizing the multilateral trading system.The World Trade Organization(WTO)plays a crucial role in the development of the global economy and trade.It also plays a key role in maintaining a fair,open and sustainable international trade environment,and provides a solid foundation for the development of global economy and trade.As the Global South has played an important role in promoting WTO reform and safeguarding the rights and interests of developing countries,it’s important to further strengthen its solidarity,actively participate in the reform of the global trade governance system and promote the building of a more open,fair and balanced global trade environment.

Production and trade trend of oils and oilseeds in BRICS countries

In order to promote agricultural production and trade cooperation among BRICS countries,and ensure the security and stability of the oils and oilseeds industrial and supply chains in China and the world,the production,consumption,trade trend,and cooperation potential of oils and oilseeds in BRICS countries were expounded,and relevant policy recommendations were put forward.Most of the BRICS countries are major agricultural producers,and they are also important agricultural product consumption markets in the world.In 2023/2024,the production and consumption of oilseeds in BRICS countries account for nearly half of the world's total;the production of vegetable oils exceeds a quarter of the world's total,and the consumption of vegetable oils accounts for 40%of the world's total.In 2023/2024,the import and export volume of oilseeds exceeds half of the world's total;vegetable oil imports account for 40%of the world's total,and exports account for about one tenth of the world's total.China's imports of oilseeds and oils from BRICS countries account for 68%and 29%of its global imports in 2023,respectively.BRICS countries are rich in agricultural land resources,have great potential for oils and oilseeds production,obvious complementary advantages in trade structure,and huge space for future cooperation.It is suggested that Brazil should be included in the"Belt and Road"co-construction category to promote the continuous deepening of agricultural cooperation between China and Brazil.It is suggested to explore regional agricultural trade agreements among BRICS countries,promote currency settlement and exchange among BRICS countries,and enhance the facilitation and stability of BRICS trade.It is suggested that China should increase its investment in BRICS countries and export advanced technology and management experience to benefit local agricultural development and achieve a mutually beneficial and win-win situation.

Policies Aiming at Stabilizing Foreign Trade Continue to Work

On May 30,t he Ch ina Council for the Promotion of International Trade(CCPIT)held a regular press conference.Zhao Ping,the spokesperson for the CCPIT,said that since the beginning of this year,the number of issued ATA Carnets has increased significantly,reflecting the fact that China’s foreign trade policy portfolio is taking effect,foreign trade enterprises have been more active,and their motivation and enthusiasm for expanding the international market have continued to rise.

How Can Foreign Trade Be Stabilized?

At an economy-themed press conference held on the day of the Second Session of the 14th National People's Congress,Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao admitted that the situation of foreign trade situation is still"very severe"this year.When it comes to the future policies for stabilizing foreign trade,Wang Wentao said that the government will provide better financial services forforeign trade enterprises.

Facilitating Trade Across Borders

“The Government Work Report noted that‘development of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor will be accelerated’,”stated Wei Zhaohui,member of the Standing Committee of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference(CPPCC)and director-general of the Guangxi International Expo Affairs Bureau,in an interview after the Second Session of the 14th National People’s Congress on March 5.

Next-Level Relations China-Laos Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange Conference fortifies bilateral economic ties

On September 5,the ChinaLaos Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange Conference,themed"Highlevel Opening-up and Building a China-Laos Community with a Shared Future,"took place in Vientiane,capital of Laos.The purpose of the conference was to review the achievements of bilateral economic and trade cooperation and work together to develop the roadmap to high-quality development of China-Laos economic and trade cooperation by focusing on shared goals,pooling strength,and adhering to results-oriented collaboration.

Enhancement of Competitiveness of Border Trade Entrepreneurs: Case Study of Su-Ngai Kolok Checkpoint, Narathiwat Province

This research aimed to analyze the enhancement of competitiveness among fruit and vegetable export entrepreneurs,with the case study of the Su-ngai Kolok checkpoint in Narathiwat Province.This research focused on three objectives:(1)examining how competitiveness is enhanced through government support and the development of border trade zones,(2)studying the supply chain dynamics,including strategic factors and opportunities in agricultural product management,and(3)developing a model for border trade to strengthen exporters’capabilities.The research employed qualitative methods,with data collected from 25 informants through interviews and employed descriptive methods.The research results revealed that:(1)government agencies play a crucial role in improving competitiveness by developing border economic zones and trade policies;additionally,(2)the research highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships,network building,and efficient logistics along the value chain;(3)the proposed Border Trade Model includes elements for instance government policy,partnerships,entrepreneurial potential,and transportation channels,aiming to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of vegetable and fruit exporters in the region.

The Influence of the Implementation of Trade Facilitation Systems on the Time Required for Creating Delivery Orders: A Case Study of Tema Port

This study evaluated the impact of Ghana’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), implemented within the National Single Window initiative, on the efficiency of issuing Delivery Orders (DO) at Tema Port. Filling a gap in the existing literature, the research employed a quantitative approach to assess a specific time-related aspect of the cargo clearance process. Employing an Independent t-test on a dataset spanning 2026 Delivery Orders (924 pre-ICUMS and 1102 post-ICUMS) from July 2020 to July 2023, the study investigated ICUMS’s effectiveness in reducing DO issuance time. Results indicate a noteworthy decrease in average DO issuance time, from 11 days pre-implementation to approximately 9 days post-implementation, a reduction validated by statistical analysis through the independent t-test. In light of these findings, the study recommends ongoing refinement of the implementation, reinforcement of trade facilitation measures, and the adoption of best practices from successful global ports. Continuous stakeholder training and regular assessments of ICUMS performance are also endorsed. The study’s implications support the theoretical framework for Single Window systems and carry significant policy implications, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to streamline trade facilitation processes driven by Information Technology. Practically, the results serve as a management tool for stakeholders, highlighting areas for targeted interventions to reduce DO issuance times. Methodologically, this research contributes by applying robust statistical analysis to a specific component within the Time Release Study framework, offering a nuanced understanding of trade facilitation systems’ effectiveness in improving cargo clearance processes.

The Tenth Anniversary of Free Trade Pilot Zones in China:Fundamental Experiences and Enhancement Strategies

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China,the country has established 21 Free Trade Pilot Zones(FTZs),achieving significant pioneering results in reform and opening up and creating a strong demonstrative effect nationwide.The basic experience from a decade of FTZs includes:adhering to the centralized and unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee;combining top-level design with encouragement of grassroots innovation;leveraging the distinct characteristics and strengths of FTZs to form a differentiated development pattern;maintaining the integration of opening up with domestic reforms;using openness to drive reforms;and organically combining openness with national security assurance.Under the current and future new circumstances,China’s FTZs face new challenges and tasks.In accordance with the directives of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China,an enhancement strategy for the FTZs needs to be implemented.This involves the following:First,accurately understanding and responding to the changing situation to create strategic opportunities.Second,shifting paradigms to implement innovation-driven strategies,using the new development pattern concept to guide the reform experiments and construction of the FTZs.Third,granting more autonomy to FTZs for reforms,pursuing progress while maintaining stability,and solidly advancing the reform experiments in the FTZs.Fourth,orderly expanding the opening up of the service sector and cautiously advancing the internationalization of the renminbi.Fifth,promoting innovative development in trade to build a strong trade nation.Sixth,establishing synergy with bilateral FTZs,Belt and Road cooperation,and national diplomatic strategies to enhance the linkage effect.

Analysis of the Impact of Technical Trade Barriers on the Export of Toys-Based on Analysis of Zhejiang,China

Technical barriers to trade,as a non-tariff barrier,have an increasing impact on the international market.As a major province in toy exports,Zhejiang Province’s toy export trade is therefore greatly hindered.This article aims to explore the impact of technical trade barriers on toy exports in Zhejiang Province and analyze countermeasures.Through literature review and some empirical analysis,it is found that technical trade barriers have greatly promoted the development of Zhejiang’s toy industry;however,they have also subjected it to impacts and pressures such as cost and technology.In response to the impact of technical trade barriers on toy exports,this article proposes corresponding countermeasures to avoid such barriers:firstly,establish a quality management system that complies with export product regulations to ensure that the products produced can meet international requirements and standards;secondly,reduce dependence on overseas markets;then enhance one’s own technology,and strengthen product innovation,in order to enhance the international competitiveness of the product and oneself;in addition,we should also explore diversified markets and expand the sales channels and coverage of our products.

Preserving the Ozone Layers: Battling Illegal Trade in Ozone-Depleting Substances

The depletion of the ozone layer, a vital shield protecting the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, is now a worldwide environmental concern. Human activities, particularly the release of ozone depleting substances (ODS), have led to the thinning of this protective layer over recent decades. Simultaneously, illegal trade has emerged as a global challenge, giving rise to economic issues, losses of tax revenue, heightened criminal activities, health risks, and environmental hazards. The depletion of the ozone layer, a critical shield protecting the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, has become a global environmental concern. This paper delves into the legal dimensions surrounding ozone-depleting substances (ODS), their impact on the ozone layer, and the subsequent risk of skin cancer. As countries navigate international agreements, domestic regulations, and enforcement mechanisms, the intricate interplay between legal frameworks and the health implications of ozone layer depletion comes to the forefront. The paper highlights particular instances of illegal trade in ozone depleting substances, drawing from data reported by the parties to the Montreal Protocol. Notably, China stands out as a significant source of contraband ODS, with other countries such as Bulgaria, Lithuania, Poland, and France reporting numerous cases. Analyzing these case instances offers insights into the efficacy of legal frameworks and enforcement measures. The paper offers a comprehensive set of recommendations to strengthen global control and enforcement against the illegal trade of ozone depleting substances. These recommendations span diverse aspects such as production monitoring, customs collaboration, mutual verification, cross-border agreements, public-private partnerships, international cooperation, detection equipment, global regulatory standards, resource allocation, public awareness campaigns, alternative substance development, and controlling the trade at its source. By applying these recommendations and enhancing enforcement measures, we aim to protect the ozone layer and create a healthier and safer world for future generations and achieve sustainable development goals.

China-Europe Railway Freight: New Highlights of International Trade

The volume of China-Europe railway freight has expanded despite the coronavirus outbreak.During the first five months of 2020,there was a total of 3,953 China-Europe railway freight trips involving 356 thousand standard containers,up by 28%and 32%respectively.Around 98%of the containers were at full freight capacity during both eastbound and westbound trips.At the online forum for promoting international cooperation in China-Russia and China-Europe railway freight on June 30,Sergey Inyushin,Trade Representative of the Russian Federation in China,said that the agri-cultural trade has risen by 25%for this year’s China-Russia trade.It has become the second-largest item in China-Russia trade transactions.Approximately 50%of Russia’s livestock product exports enter the Chinese market.

An analysis of agarwood trade patterns,historical perspectives,and species identification challenges:repercussions for importing nations

Background:Agarwood,primarily derived from the Aquilaria and Gyrinops genera,holds significant economic importance.However,there is a lack of comprehensive investigations providing guidance to importing nations regarding cultivation quantities and expected yields of Agarwood from distinct species.This study aims to address this gap by exploring the historical context and trade evolution of Agarwood,highlighting its global importance,and the challenges associated with securing accurate species information.Method:On-site visits to Agarwood cultivation sites were conducted to gain a nuanced understanding of Aquilaria species and their cultivation requirements.Additionally,a thorough analysis of global export and import data for Agarwood products over the last decade was undertaken.Results:China Mainland emerged as the leading exporter of Agarwood,averaging an annual export value of USD 1 million.India’s substantial exports challenge the prevailing notion of limited Agarwood production within its borders.Hong Kong and Singapore are pivotal distribution hubs,while Hong Kong and Taipei feature prominently as import destinations.Our analysis uncovers anomalies in the representation of Agarwood producers from 2001 to 2008,suggesting potential misclassification of Aquilaria Agarwood as Gyrinops in global export information.These findings underscore the urgency of investigating classification and reporting practices in the Agarwood trade.Furthermore,A.filaria emerges as a notable source,while A.malaccensis is decline in prominence.Conclusion:This study provides crucial insights for policymakers,stakeholders,and industry players seeking to make informed decisions in the Agarwood trade landscape.The results highlight the need for accurate species identification,classification,and reporting practices to ensure sustainable cultivation and trade of Agarwood.