Fruits from Southeast Asia and beef from Australia will be imported to Chongqing markets through Lianglu Cuntan Bonded Port in Liangjiang New Area, according to Chongqing Runjiu Supply Chain Management Company.

"In early October, 22 tons of longan fruits will arrive in Chongqing Bonded Port," said Zhou Yu, manager of Chongqing Runjiu. The import marks the first time for fruit from Southeast Asia to enter Chongqing. The imports are aimed at satisfying the growing demand of consumers in the municipality.

"The traditional process of importing fruits and meat requires customs clearance and inspection before delivering to the country's inland areas. The process time is lengthy and not good for food storage," said a senior staff member from a logistics management company based in Chongqing.

Since Lianglu Cuntan Bonded Port commenced operations, clearance and inspection of meat and fruit has been carried out on site, allowing logistics costs to be cut.

Runjiu is now seeking cooperation with Italy to introduce fruit and meat from the country. "We will firstly introduce the Italy kiwi fruit to Chongqing," said Zhou.

The construction of Lianglu Cuntan port has made substantial progress this year. It has become the only port to import fruit and meat into West China, laying a good foundation for the development of Chongqing's international commerce.

The port has also set out plans to deepen its administrative system reforms. In March, a diversified trade pilot project will begin in Lianglu Cuntan Bonded Port. The project aims to encourage more enterprises to carry out offshore trade.

Liangjiang New Area has prioritized the development of cross-border e-commerce. In May, an experience store from the Internet-based company igetmall.net opened at the exhibition and trading center of Lianglu Cuntan free trade port zone, marking the company's move to combine online and offline business.

Edited by Jacob Hooson