A new international freight train bound for Hanoi, capital of Vietnam, is launched in Guoyuan port, Liangjiang New Area on March 26. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]

The first China-Vietnam freight train departed from Guoyuan port in Liangjiang New Area, Chongqing bound for Hanoi on March 26, marking the launch of a brand-new route in the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor.

The train carried 43 containers of engines, printer paper, and other products valued at a total of $3.9 million, and has strengthened Chongqing's exchanges with ASEAN members.

Along with the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement, cross-border transportation demand in western China is soaring. Before the launch of the freight train, cargo from Chongqing and Sichuan needed to be transferred to eastern ports before heading to Vietnam, and it took nearly 20 days to complete the journey. Now the shipping period has been shortened to just four to five days, saving on labor and other costs.

"The new freight train satisfies the diverse transportation needs of clients and helps enterprises carry out multi-model transport activities in Guoyuan port, which will inject new vitality into foreign trade in Liangjiang," said Li Guoqiang, deputy director of the new area's free trade office.