China's cold chain logistics market increased by 4 per cent in the first quarter, driven by fresh food e-commerce, direct-from-source shipping, and instant retail, along with the introduction of new transportation routes, as per recent data from the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing.
The market was valued at CNY2.2 trillion (USD306.2 billion) for the quarter ending March 31. Online fruit and vegetable sales rose 15 per cent year-on-year, while in-store frozen goods purchases increased by 10 per cent. The wholesale market for fruits and vegetables remained stable, with a 5 per cent increase in vegetable sales.
The role of cold chain logistics is highlighted by the growth in online fresh produce sales and direct shipping. Qin Yuming, secretary-general of the federation's cold chain logistics committee, noted the sector's support for these trends on CCTV News.
With the peak season for fresh produce approaching, demand for cold chain logistics is anticipated to rise in the second quarter. Growth is expected to surpass last year's figures, continuing the market's expansion.
Infrastructure related to cold chain logistics grew steadily in the first quarter, supported by government subsidies. Sales of electric refrigerated trucks rose 71 per cent from the previous year, reaching 2,969 units, now comprising 27 per cent of all refrigerated trucks.
New direct air routes and the 'rail + cold chain' model have facilitated the import of high-quality food products. For instance, Chengdu now receives direct shipments of fresh salmon from Santiago, Chile, reducing delivery time to 48 hours.
Chengdu Customs data shows Sichuan province's fresh produce imports increased rapidly in the first quarter, with chilled salmon imports nearly tripling to CNY330 million (USD45.7 million) and fresh shrimp imports rising 12-fold to CNY800 million (USD110 million).
Source: Yicai Global