An international air cargo route for fruits and vegetables was launched on Saturday from Urumqi, capital of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
The first flight carried more than 18 tons of produce from Xinjiang, including melons, tomato products, grapes, and dried apples.
According to Zhu Shiqiang, chairman of Xinjiang Fruit Industry Group, fruits and vegetables from Xinjiang were previously transported to the Middle East mainly by sea, land, and rail, which meant longer transit times and challenges in maintaining freshness. "With the official launch of the route, fruits and vegetables from Xinjiang can now reach Dubai directly in about six hours," Zhu said.
He added, "Xinjiang's fruits and vegetables are highly sought after by overseas consumers. As long as quality is ensured, air transport still holds considerable profit potential."
Xinjiang's agricultural products are currently exported to more than 10 countries and regions, including Thailand, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Additional air cargo routes for fruits and vegetables are being planned for Southeast Asia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Europe.
Source: Xinhua