Imagine cross-border trade procedures simplified to the ease of pressing a "one-click start" button, with goods moving freely between different regulatory zones without information barriers. This vision is becoming reality in China-ASEAN logistics through a groundbreaking innovation.
The nationally pioneering "Smart Connect" cross-border trade multi-zone linkage reform project has recently passed final inspection in the China (Guangxi) Pilot Free Trade Zone's Nanning area, marking a qualitative leap in logistics efficiency between China and ASEAN nations.
Technological Integration Breaks Down Barriers
Developed by the Nanning Area Administrative Committee, the "Smart Connect" system innovatively establishes a coordinated network comprising "1 smart supervision platform + N customs supervision sites." The project integrates advanced technologies including smart security locks, AI image recognition, and satellite positioning to create a comprehensive intelligent supervision network across key logistics hubs such as Nanning Comprehensive Bonded Zone, Wuxu International Airport, and Aikou Port.
This technological framework effectively eliminates information silos between different regulatory zones, enabling seamless data connectivity across the entire supply chain.
Streamlined Processes Deliver Tangible Benefits
Compared with traditional cross-border logistics models, the "Smart Connect" system significantly enhances customs clearance efficiency through simplified declaration procedures. Goods now require only a single declaration from origin to final destination, with the system automatically handling critical processes like sealing verification.
This transformative approach has substantially reduced manual intervention, decreased error rates, and dramatically shortened clearance times. Since its trial operation began in September, the project has demonstrated remarkable results:
- Average supervision verification and sealing time for cross-border transit vehicles has been reduced by 90%
- Total clearance time for multi-zone transit goods has dropped from 3-4 days to just 1 day
- Enterprises report an average 15% reduction in comprehensive logistics costs
These efficiency gains have generated concrete economic benefits for businesses while strengthening trade vitality between China and ASEAN countries. The successful implementation of this innovation sets a new benchmark for international logistics cooperation in the region.