**Interview with Li Jiayi on the Surge of Trade at Guangxi’s Border Ports**

**Nanning, October 15** – The Guangxi Border Inspection Station recently reported a significant rise in border trade activities, driven by ongoing initiatives like the China-ASEAN Industrial Cooperation Zone, cross-border smart port projects, and favorable immigration policies.

As of October 13, over 584,000 inbound and outbound cargo vehicles had been processed at the Friendship Pass port and its supplementary routes in 2024, marking a 19.9% increase compared to last year.

The current peak season for import and export customs clearance has brought a flurry of cross-border vehicles loaded with tropical fruits such as durian, jackfruit, and mangoes. The busy scene at the Friendship Pass port has become a regular sight.

In a recent interview, Ms. Li, a shop owner in Pingxiang City near Guangxi’s border, shared her insights: “Since the implementation of the new customs clearance policies, the process has become much more convenient, leading to a boom in border trade.”

The Friendship Pass port’s dedicated cargo passageway, which opened its second bridge on April 30 this year, has increased processing lanes from six to twelve. They’ve also introduced a 2.0 version of the fast clearance system for inbound and outbound vehicles, creating a contactless clearance model called “one-time filing + quick checks.” This system utilizes dual information comparison technology with fingerprint and facial recognition to enhance efficiency.

“To keep pace with the rapidly growing clearance demand, we are continuously improving the customs environment, streamlining verification processes, and upgrading inspection facilities. After registering with the border inspection authority, drivers can complete their clearance procedures in just 15 seconds,” stated Liu Hai, the team leader of the first squad at the Friendship Pass border inspection station.

The recent changes have raised expectations among truck drivers who have benefited from the new clearance procedures. Mr. Wang, a truck driver, expressed his excitement, saying, “In the past, I could only make two trips a day, but now with the new checkpoint operational, I can make several more runs, significantly boosting my income.”