Recently, Hawei Supply Chain Group took a solid step forward in the cross-border cold chain logistics sector. On March 31, the first 50 of 100 smart refrigerated containers, contracted by Chongqing Nanbowang Logistics Technology Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the Group, and China Logistics (Yunnan) Multimodal Transport Co., Ltd., were successfully manufactured and underwent on-site inspection at Qingdao CIMC Special Refrigeration Equipment Co., Ltd. The Head of the Logistics Department of Hawei Supply Chain Group led a team to Qingdao, conducted a detailed inspection of all equipment, and officially transported the containers to Kunming. Following customs registration, the containers will be deployed on the China-Laos-Thailand Railway for cross-border transportation of fresh produce from Southeast Asia.

Strong Alliance: From R&D to Mass Production, Strengthening the Cold Chain Equipment Foundation

A key challenge in cross-border fresh produce trade lies in “breaking the cold chain” and “temperature fluctuations.” As early as 2023, Hawei Supply Chain Group demonstrated foresight by entering a strategic partnership with CIMC Group, a world-leading logistics equipment manufacturer, to jointly develop high-performance refrigerated containers suitable for long-distance tropical and subtropical cross-border transport. The delivery of these containers also marks another important outcome of the deepening strategic cooperation between Hawei Supply Chain Group and China Logistics Group. Since establishing their partnership, the two groups have continuously collaborated on capacity integration, terminal coordination, and cold chain asset management along key corridors such as the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the China-Laos-Thailand Railway.

This series of containers utilizes CIMC’s next-generation insulation technology and intelligent temperature control systems, capable of maintaining internal temperature fluctuations within ±0.5°C under ambient temperatures ranging from -20°C to 45°C. Additionally, they support real-time remote monitoring and positioning, ensuring full visibility and control throughout the transportation of high-value fresh products such as durian, bananas, and prepared vegetables.

100-Unit Lease Agreement: First 50 Units Delivered as Scheduled

The delivery of the first 50 containers is part of a 100-unit lease agreement signed between Chongqing Nanbowang Logistics Technology Co., Ltd. and China Logistics (Yunnan) Multimodal Transport Co., Ltd. As a specialized logistics subsidiary of Hawei Supply Chain Group, Chongqing Nanbowang focuses on cross-border cold chain asset management. China Logistics (Yunnan) Multimodal Transport Co., Ltd., backed by China Logistics Group, has extensive expertise in customs clearance, railway wagon coordination, and overseas operations along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway. The two parties operate under a synergistic model of “equipment + corridor,” jointly serving fresh produce export businesses in Yunnan and Southwest China targeting Southeast Asian markets.

On March 31, the Head of the Logistics Department of Hawei Supply Chain Group led an inspection team to the CIMC facility in Qingdao. Based on the refrigerated container acceptance standards, the team meticulously verified all container-related information. After confirmation, the first 50 units were approved for delivery, fully meeting contract specifications and the technical requirements for cross-border transport along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway. Upon completion of the inspection, the containers were promptly loaded and transported to Kunming.

Kunming Consolidation and Trial Operation on China-Laos-Thailand Railway: Completing the Seamless Cold Chain Loop

As planned, the first 50 refrigerated containers will undergo customs registration procedures upon arrival in Kunming. Subsequently, these containers will be carried on China-Laos Railway international freight trains, departing from Mohan Port, transiting through Vientiane, Laos, and ultimately arriving in Bangkok and surrounding distribution centers in Thailand. The entire route will utilize a “rail + road” multimodal transport model, reducing transit time by 2–3 days compared to traditional road transport, while significantly minimizing risks related to cargo jostling and temperature fluctuations.

The Head of the Logistics Department at Hawei Supply Chain Group stated, “This delivery marks the first step in the Group’s ‘100-Container Initiative.’ With these 50 refrigerated containers fully deployed on the China-Laos-Thailand Railway, we expect to support the stable shipment of approximately 150 to 200 containers of Southeast Asian fruits and frozen products per month. The remaining 50 units will be delivered in stages according to operational needs, with plans to expand cross-border cold chain routes to Vietnam and beyond.”

Strategic Significance: Driving Supply Chain Capability Upgrade Through Equipment Enhancement

The successful delivery and deployment of these refrigerated containers not only signifies that the joint R&D achievements of Hawei Supply Chain Group and CIMC Group have entered a mature commercial operation phase, but also represents a substantive step forward in the Group’s ability to maintain full control over its “origin procurement – cross-border trunk line – overseas distribution” supply chain. By leveraging its own controlled fleet of refrigerated containers, Hawei can significantly reduce its reliance on the external leasing market, mitigate risks associated with container shortages and freight rate volatility during peak seasons, and provide clients with more stable and predictable cold chain services.

Looking ahead, Hawei Supply Chain Group will continue to focus on the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the China-Laos-Thailand Railway as key strategic routes. By increasing investment in cold chain assets and technology, the Group aims to establish a modern cross-border fresh produce supply chain system anchored by intelligent refrigeration equipment, powered by digital temperature control platforms, and supported by a synchronized domestic and international network. This will enable more high-quality fresh products to traverse vast distances and connect with global markets.