Logistics operator CEVA has launched a new China-to-Europe rail route, extending a service it has been offering since 2010. Panjiva data shows Chinese exports by rail to Europe increase 108% on a year earlier in the 12 months to April 30. Key products shipped include laptop computers (34% of the total) where delivery times need to be quicker than by sea (rail takes 17-19 days, sea around 30 days) but cheaper than air. Growth looks set to continue, with rail forming part of China’s “belt and road” strategy.