ASEAN-China Transport Co-operation: A Pathway to Enhance Export Trade and Mutual Benefits

Against the backdrop of global economic integration, economic cooperation between China and ASEAN has become increasingly close. As an economic organisation in Southeast Asia, ASEAN has enhanced the economic strength and international influence of the entire region by promoting economic integration among its member countries. This study examines the interaction between China and ASEAN countries in the area of transport cooperation and the potential impact of these cooperation projects on bilateral trade volumes through case studies of the China-Laos Railway (CLR) and the Kunming-Bangkok Expressway (KBA). The study uses annual import and export statistics provided by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to reveal the direct and indirect impacts of transport infrastructure improvements on trade flows by comparing the growth rates of China's imports and exports of goods with the partner countries before and after the co-operation with the growth rates with ASEAN countries. The results show a significant trade-boosting effect of transport infrastructure cooperation between China and ASEAN countries. The opening of the CLR and the KBA not only improved the efficiency and quality of goods transport, but also promoted the economic development of the countries along the routes. Through these transport infrastructure projects, the trade volume between China and ASEAN countries has increased significantly, the trade structure has been optimised, logistics efficiency has been improved, industrial complementarity has been enhanced, and substantial economic benefits have been brought to both sides.