China's road freight sector saw a surge in growth in December last year, with the national road freight price index hitting a 2024 high amid increased demand for transportation, according to data released by the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing on Saturday.
The index reached 105.9 in December 2024, marking a 1.3 percent monthly increase and a 1.86 percent year-over-year gain, the data showed.
Logistics data for December revealed growth across various transport models, with full-truckload logistics leading the way. The full-truckload logistics index, a key indicator of bulk commodity and regional transportation, rose to 106.3, posting a 1.32 percent month-over-month increase and a 2.1 percent year-over-year gain, the data showed.
Since the fourth quarter of 2024, rising consumption and growing transport demand have driven the continuous growth of the road freight sector.
Throughout last year, the sector saw a recovery in the final months after a period of low performance and fluctuations. In December, the road freight price index reached its peak for the year.
China's road freight sector grows in December
China's road freight sector grows in December
Scenic spots across China have seen an influx of tourists during the ongoing Qingming Festival holiday, attracted by breathtaking spring scenery and a variety of entertainment activities.
Falling on April 5 this year, the Qingming Festival, or the Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a traditional Chinese festival for honoring the deceased and paying tributes to ancestors. The three-day holiday from Saturday to Monday also provides a short break for Chinese citizens to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing in pleasant springtime temperatures.
In Beijing, flowers are in full bloom in many parks, drawing large crowds of visitors to capture the beauty on camera.
"The flowers are now in full bloom and this is one of the most beautiful seasons in Beijing. The weather is lovely, and it's a holiday. I'm in a great mood spending time with my family, and my child is also very happy," said Zheng, a visitor.
In Luanping County, north China's Hebei Province, the magnificent Jinshanling section of the Great Wall and apricot blossoms dotting the surrounding mountains create a stunning, picturesque scene, attracting many tourists to enjoy the breathtaking view.
In Nanchang, large expanses of blooming cherry blossoms have also drawn many visitors to the Jiangxi Academy of Forestry.
The academy has planted multiple varieties of cherry blossoms, allowing visitors not only to enjoy a spring outing and admire the flowers, but also learn about plant science.
"A large stretch of cherry blossoms has bloomed along the lake. When the wind blows, the cherry blossoms flutter down like snow. It's incredibly romantic," said Xiao Yuxin, a tourist.
During the holiday, the Bashan Grand Canyon Scenic Area in Dazhou, southwest China's Sichuan Province, has designed a series of fun and immersive experience activities, allowing tourists to fully engage with the local culture and customs.
Spring scenery, fun activities draw crowds to scenic spots in China during Qingming Festival holiday
