Pinglu Canal Set to Revolutionize China-ASEAN Trade Routes, Achieved 53% Milestone

• 9 October 2024
• Construction Focus
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The Pinglu Canal, a pivotal infrastructure project in southern China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, has already seen 53.2% of its construction completed since work began on 28 August 2022. This major progress was reported on 10 September 2024.

With an investment of approximately $9.97 billion, this ambitious project is expected to open new trade corridors between China and ASEAN countries, drastically reducing shipping time from Nanning to the Beibu Gulf to just 15-17 hours. The canal is a key element in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan and its New Western Land and Sea Corridor strategy, signalling its growing influence in Southeast Asian logistics.

Spanning 134.2 kilometres, the Pinglu Canal features three ship locks capable of accommodating vessels of up to 5,000 tons, ensuring the efficient transport of goods through this strategically located waterway. Once operational, the canal can enhance trade flows and boost regional development. Yuan Peng, Deputy Director of the Engineering Department at Pinglu Canal Group Co., Ltd., confirmed that “nearly 20,000 workers are currently engaged in the earthwork and rock excavation stages of the project, with the canal slated for trial operations within the next two years.”

This groundbreaking project represents China’s firm commitment to reinforcing its economic ties with Southeast Asia and expanding its reach to global markets. By creating a new, faster gateway for maritime trade, the Pinglu Canal is set to become a cornerstone of China-ASEAN connectivity.

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