“The channel set to transform global trade: China unveils covert link between rivers and sea”
In southern China, a significant project is underway that will have far-reaching implications. The Yu River Waterway, connecting the Yu River to the Gulf of Tonkin, is not only aimed at reducing transportation times and costs, but also at reshaping China’s strategic position in international trade.
Water corridor redefining distances
Construction on the 134-kilometer waterway began in Guangxi in 2022 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Once finished, it will allow ships of up to 5,000 tons to travel directly from inland China to maritime ports, cutting out over 500 kilometers of overland routes. The project, with a budget of 9.3 billion euros, will include locks designed to expedite passage and minimize delays.
Technology, ambition, and environmental challenges
To withstand saltwater erosion, a special concrete is being used in the construction of the waterway. In addition to its commercial benefits, the canal will also help alleviate traffic in industrial areas, improve irrigation management, and aid in flood prevention. However, concerns have been raised about the project’s environmental impact, particularly regarding the alteration of rivers and encroachment on mangroves.
Another piece in the new “Silk Road”
The Yu River Waterway is part of China’s larger strategy to enhance its network of international corridors, reducing logistical costs and expanding its commercial influence. By providing a direct route from Guangxi to the sea, the project challenges the current dominance of international maritime routes, positioning China as a key player in global trade.
