Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is emerging as a key player in cross-border e-commerce. Despite not being located near a coastline or national border, the city has achieved impressive growth in the sector, with more than 61 million import and export declarations in the first half of 2024, a year-on-year increase of 276%.
Logistics and Trade Infrastructure Drive Growth
The success of Chengdu’s cross-border e-commerce industry can be attributed to the development of robust international trade infrastructure. The China-Europe Express Railway (Chengdu-Chongqing) and the construction of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor have significantly enhanced Chengdu’s connectivity. Coupled with two operational airports and expanded cross-border road transportation, Chengdu has become a hub for global trade, providing vital logistics solutions for businesses in the region.
Surging Cross-Border Consumption and Business Expansion
A trading company located in the Chengdu Hi-tech Comprehensive Bonded Zone reported a significant rise in demand, with daily order volumes exceeding 20,000 in the first half of 2024. Its bonded warehouse in Shuangliu district processed close to 15,000 orders daily, with a monthly throughput of over 1 million cans of infant milk powder. The company, which specializes in imported maternal and child products, saw a 40% increase in year-on-year order volume, serving over 2 million cross-border consumers.
The company's growth reflects the broader trend in Chengdu’s cross-border e-commerce sector, where expanding supply chains and partnerships with overseas brands have become a priority for many businesses.
Chengdu’s Women's Shoe Industry Reaches Global Markets
Chengdu, known as China’s women’s shoes capital, is leveraging cross-border e-commerce to propel its local shoe industry to international markets. With products such as women’s shoes and used cars, the city has found new business opportunities abroad. Many companies have transitioned from exporting products to launching independent brands targeting overseas consumers.
For example, a Chengdu-based company that traditionally outsourced women’s shoe production launched its own independent site this year, introducing a proprietary brand for global sales. Through direct online sales, the company’s per-customer transaction value increased to over $100, compared to the previous $30 through third-party platforms.
Cross-Border E-Commerce Fuels Industry Growth
The integration of cross-border e-commerce with traditional industries in Chengdu is transforming sectors such as shoe manufacturing. At the end of 2023, fewer than 200 companies in Chengdu were engaged in cross-border e-commerce. This number has since doubled, highlighting the revitalization of traditional industries through global trade.
Nationwide, there are now over 120,000 cross-border e-commerce entities, and service providers specializing in logistics, payment, and data solutions are rapidly establishing a presence in Chengdu.
Supporting SMEs and Future Growth
A representative from the Chengdu Bureau of Commerce emphasized that many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in traditional industries are eager to explore global markets. To support these businesses, the bureau plans to compile a cross-border e-commerce services manual and nurture high-quality export brands.
Chengdu has set ambitious goals for the sector, aiming to cultivate 15 cross-border e-commerce industrial belts by the end of 2025. The city expects transaction volumes to surpass 140 billion yuan (approximately $19.72 billion), further solidifying its position as a hub for international trade and innovation.