Chinese logistics giant YTO Express is speeding up cross-border shipping in Kazakhstan's Almaty, laying the groundwork as a regional hub to connect Central Asia to the rest of the world.
As Chinese e-commerce continues to expand globally, fast and reliable delivery has become the new frontier.
YTO Express entered Kazakhstan in June last year. For deliveryman Alisher, who previously studied in China, the company's arrival has provided him with an exciting opportunity. Since joining YTO six months ago, he has been handling up to 80 deliveries daily.
When studying in China, he often shopped online using e-commerce platforms like Alibaba's Taobao and learned how convenient their services can be.
"So when I saw YTO in Kazakhstan for the first time, I was very happy, [switch to English] I was shocked. I think I have a future at this company," he said.
In Almaty, the company's arrival has changed the game through speed, especially for those who love Chinese products.
YTO not only provides numerous job opportunities for the local community but also helps consumers acquire what they need more easily, according to Gulina, station manager at Almaty Flagship Express.
"My friends in Kazakhstan can now buy Chinese products through YTO. It feels great to help connect our two countries. I'm proud of what I do," said Gulina.
However, YTO's Central Asia journey is just the first step toward a global express hub.
"As we say: 'To get rich, build roads first.' Our Almaty 'Sky hub' project is the first step in our global strategy. Over the next decade, we plan to build seven major logistics hubs in the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Americas. We believe it's our mission to support Chinese enterprises going global by laying the infrastructure first. With strong logistics, businesses can go further, and grow stronger," said Hu Ruiqi, general manager for the Central Asia region at YTO International.
YTO Express powers cross-border delivery in Kazakhstan
