Supply Chain Research

China’s plans to expand trade via rail to Europe are reportedly facing increasing customs problems in Kazakhstan. That won’t be a simple problem to fix given the involvement of both local and national politicians. Given the importance of the Chinese government’s belt-and-road policy a solution is likely eventually. There may not be an urgency though as the time saving in shipping by rail vs. sea is measured in days vs. customs delays measured in hours. Chinese exports by rail climbed 39% in the 12 months to October 31. That’s been led by a more-than-doubling to Europe as operators includ...