Pinglu Canal to Enhance ASEAN-China Manufacturing Connectivity
The Pinglu Canal in China is nearing completion and is expected to open by the end of 2026. This 134km inland waterway in Guangxi will significantly enhance manufacturing links between China and ASEAN countries by reducing inland shipping costs and improving access. The canal will provide southwestern Chinese provinces with a shorter maritime route to the South China Sea, cutting transit times and logistics costs. This development is expected to strengthen supply-chain integration, particularly benefiting manufacturers in Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. The canal will also facilitate the flow of raw materials into China's industrial regions, supporting sectors like electric vehicle production and tire manufacturing.