Guangxi’s Pinglu Canal Project Progresses Toward 2025 Completion

The 14th People’s Congress of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region commenced its third session in Nanning, highlighting the Pinglu Canal project as a key development focus.

Overview of the Pinglu Canal

• Length: 134.2 kilometers.
• Capacity: Accommodates 5,000-tonne ships.
• Timeline:
  • Construction Completion: 2025 (goal).
  • Operational Start: 2026.
• Investment: 17 billion yuan ($2.3 billion).
• Significance:
  • Connects inland rivers with the sea, the first such project since the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
  • Integrates with the Beibu Gulf waterway network to enhance domestic and international trade connectivity.

Economic and Social Impact

• Economic Growth: The canal is expected to drive regional development by linking domestic markets with global supply chains.
• Sustainability: Regulations for the canal’s protection and management are being reviewed to ensure long-term operations.

Guangxi Government’s 2024 Projections

• GDP Growth: Around 4.2%.
• Foreign Trade: An 8.3% increase in import-export volume.
• Intermodal Train Services: Over 10,000 annual services on the new western land-sea corridor, supporting enhanced logistical efficiency.

Remarks from Yang Bin

Yang Bin, General Manager of Pinglu Canal Group, stated:
“The Pinglu Canal holds immense economic and social value. Its integration with the Beibu Gulf waterway network will strengthen market connectivity, benefiting both domestic and international trade.”

The Pinglu Canal is poised to become a landmark infrastructure project, enhancing Guangxi’s role as a crucial hub in China’s economic landscape.