China's investment in logistics infrastructure grew by 3.9 percent in the first four months of 2025 from the same period of the last year, according to the data released Tuesday by the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing (CFLP).
Equipment purchase investment played a prominent leading role, with investments in water transport and air transport increased by 26.9 percent and 13.9 percent, respectively, the data showed.
Liu Yuhang, director of the China Logistics Information Center, said the construction of the National Comprehensive Three-dimensional Transportation Network, which includes 700,000 kilometers of railways, highways and high-level sea lanes by 2035, has boosted the investment in logistics infrastructure.
So far, the main skeleton of the mega transportation network has already been completed by 90 percent.
"The investment in infrastructure for the logistics industry, especially relating to the integrated three-dimensional transportation network, has been completed in a relatively high level. The construction of such infrastructure can better ensure the operation of the logistics, which will support the high-quality development of our economy," he said.
The CFLP data showed the overall volume of physical logistics transportation remained stable in the first four months of the year. The amount of goods delivered through railway, highway, joint rail-water way, cargo and mail transportation grew year-on-year by 3.6 percent, 5 percent, 19.1 percent, and 13 percent, respectively.
China's investment in logistics infrastructure grows for mega transport network
The spillover effects of the ongoing Middle East conflict have driven up commodity prices in Ethiopia, taking a heavy toll on people's daily life, especially for the low-income population.
With U.S.-Israeli joint military strikes on Iran now exceeding one month and no clear resolution in sight, the economic aftershocks are spreading far beyond the Middle East.
As part of its response to U.S. and Israeli operations, Iran has restricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, targeting ships associated with the United States and Israel. The blockade of this vital global energy route has driven up oil and gas prices worldwide.
In Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, long queues of vehicles could be seen at gas stations waiting for fuel. Prices of other goods are also on the rise.
"The prices of goods are going up every day. If the conflict continues, life will become very hard, especially for people with low incomes," said Zeynu Yelma, a shop owner.
Beyond rising living costs, the surge in prices has also hit the local construction industry.
"Over the past two weeks, the prices of building materials have risen sharply, severely affecting our work. The price of cement has nearly doubled. Sand and gravel costs continue to rise. The price of steel has also surged. If this trend continues, I'm afraid our work may have to stop," said Yetbarek Workenhe, manager of a construction site.
Although local authorities have been working to secure supplies, provide subsidies, and prioritize public services, the severe international situation continues to widen the supply gap.
Spillover effects of Middle East conflict push up prices in Ethiopia
