Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China has opened its second International Road Transports (TIR) assembly centre to boost cross-border logistics. The new centre, certified by the International Road Transport Union (IRU), started operating in Urumqi, the region's capital, on Wednesday. The TIR system is a global customs transit system designed to streamline cross-border freight movement. By reducing customs procedures and paperwork, TIR helps to save time and costs for transport operators. "TIR assembly center will offer more diversified and flexible transport solutions for enterprises and improve the capacity of cross-border logistics," said Si Junjiang, president of Xinjiang International Land Port (Group) Co., Ltd. Lyu Xuenong, deputy head of Wuchang Customs, emphasised the center's role in optimising customs clearance procedures and attracting foreign trade enterprises. The customs authority will offer services such as clearance reservations and business consultations to facilitate cross-border trade. Xinjiang's first TIR assembly center opened in Kashgar in May. The region's foreign trade surged by 48.4 per cent year-on-year in the first half of 2024, surpassing the 200 billion-yuan ($28 billion) mark two months earlier than the previous year. Attribution: Xinhua Subediting: Y.Yasser
