On October 11, a long whistle sounded as a Central Asia-bound freight train loaded with photovoltaic modules, mechanical parts, and chemical materials slowly departed from the Wuhan China Railway Union Container Center Station in Wujiashan, heading toward Uzbekistan. This marks the 100th train operated since the launch of the Central Asia Railway (Wuhan). So far, this “steel caravan” traversing the Eurasian continent has transported over 70,000 tons of goods worth 1.25 billion yuan, covering five Central Asian countries and 25 cities across eight nations along the Belt and Road route.

As a core hub connecting Central Asia in the central region, the Central Asia Railway (Wuhan) has become a “direct channel” for Hubei enterprises to expand into overseas markets, leveraging advantages of “fast delivery, low cost, and superior service.” Photovoltaic companies use it to deliver clean energy to the heart of Central Asia, machinery manufacturers achieve seamless integration from “order-production-delivery” through the railway, and chemical enterprises rely on stable transport capacity to build cross-border supply chains. This corridor is promoting deep regional economic integration with “Hubei speed,” fully enhancing the open radiating capacity of the hub.

The Central Asia Railway (Wuhan) is operated by Hubei Railway Group International Transport Company. Before 2021, small quantities of goods shipped by rail from Wuhan to Central Asia were transported via the China-Europe Railway (Wuhan). On May 20, 2021, Wuhan launched its first train to Almaty, Kazakhstan; on July 28 of the same year, the first train to Tashkent, Uzbekistan departed. In 2024, Wuhan operated 35 Central Asia trains, including 25 outbound and 10 inbound. On April 12, 2025, the Central Asia Railway (Wuhan) achieved regular operations.

Since last year, with support from relevant departments, Hubei Railway Group has fully utilized its advantages, closely focusing on strengthening the strategic hub, enhancing dual-circulation hub functions, and building a comprehensive transportation hub. It has scientifically integrated high-quality resources and actively expanded Central Asia railway transport services. This year, the number of trains operated has increased by 339% compared to last year, with the monthly frequency rising to one train every two days, reaching a record 20 trains in September.

“The 100th train is not the end, but the starting point of a new journey.” The Central Asia Railway (Wuhan) will help Hubei build a new inland open highland with more efficient logistics, greener solutions, and a more open approach, injecting new momentum into the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Wuhan China Railway Union Container Center Station

The Wuhan China Railway Union Container Center Station is a major modern logistics hub that facilitates the efficient transfer and distribution of containerized cargo by rail. It plays a vital role in regional and national supply chains, supporting the economic development of central China. While specific historical details are limited, its establishment is part of China’s broader infrastructure expansion in the 21st century to enhance its domestic and international rail freight capabilities.

Central Asia Railway (Wuhan)

The Central Asia Railway is a major international freight route connecting Wuhan, China, to various Central Asian countries. It was established as a key component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative to enhance trade and infrastructure links. This railway significantly reduces transit times for goods compared to traditional sea routes, strengthening economic ties across Eurasia.

Eurasian continent

The Eurasian continent is the world’s largest landmass, comprising the continents of Europe and Asia. Historically, it has been the cradle of numerous ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and ancient China, and was crisscrossed by major trade routes like the Silk Road. This vast region has been a central stage for human migration, cultural exchange, and conflict for millennia.

Belt and Road

The “Belt and Road” is not a single physical place but a major global infrastructure and economic development initiative launched by China in 2013. Inspired by the historical Silk Road trade routes, its goal is to enhance regional connectivity and create a modern trade network spanning Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond through investments in infrastructure like ports, railways, and roads.

Hubei Railway Group International Transport Company

Hubei Railway Group International Transport Company is a state-owned enterprise specializing in international rail logistics and freight services. It operates under Hubei Provincial Railway Group, leveraging China’s Belt and Road Initiative to expand cross-border rail connections. The company plays a key role in strengthening economic ties between China and Europe/Central Asia through modern rail transport solutions.

China-Europe Railway (Wuhan)

The China-Europe Railway (Wuhan) is a major freight rail link connecting the industrial hub of Wuhan in central China to various destinations across Europe. Launched in 2012, it was a pioneering route in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, significantly reducing transit times for goods compared to sea freight. This railway has become a vital corridor for trade, strengthening economic ties between China and European countries.

Almaty

Almaty is the former capital and largest city of Kazakhstan, situated in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Historically, it was a key stop on the Silk Road and was largely destroyed by earthquakes in the 19th century before being rebuilt as a Russian colonial outpost named Verniy. Today, it serves as the nation’s major cultural and commercial hub, known for its scenic mountain backdrop and Soviet-era architecture.

Tashkent

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan and one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a major hub on the Silk Road and has been influenced by various empires, including the Persian, Arab, and Russian. Today, the city is a modern metropolis, though it retains historic landmarks like the Khast Imam complex, which houses a 7th-century Quran.