Russia’s new Arctic Express runs 31 trains in first operational season

The Arctic Express, Russia’s new freight line to the northern port of Arkhangelsk, has completed its first operational season. Since mid August, Russia has run 31 freight trains from the port, taking Chinese goods into Central Russia. The import goods have been brought in via the icy Arctic Sea, a new trend as the seas are becoming more and more navigable amid climate change.

Russia imported 2,400 TEU worth of Chinese goods, says Russian Railways (RZD), with a weight of 23,000 tonnes. The imports primarily consisted of cars and car parts. At the same time, Russia says that it sent 2,800 TEU back. It exported forestry products, paper, cardboard, as well as chemical products.

The first navigational season is now coming to an end, as the winter creeps in. The last train with Chinese imports departed Arkhangelsk on 21 October, taking goods to the Belyy Rast terminal near Moscow.

The Arctic Express may be an opportunity for Russia to send some empty containers back to China. It could explain why Russia is sending back more containers than it receives, which is contrary to the general trend in its trade dynamic with China. Recently, it was reported that Russia has been overflowing with Chinese containers, due to asymmetrical trade.

European Silk Road Summit 2024

Asia – Europe rail freight is one of the key topics to be discussed at the European Silk Road Summit 2024, taking place in Vienna on 27-28 November.

Registrations for the yearly event are already open, while the programme, which this year highlights the fast-recovering China-Europe rail market, is shaping up.