Study Period | 2017 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 1.31 Trillion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 1.78 Trillion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 6.27 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
China Freight and Logistics Market Analysis
The China Freight and Logistics Market size is estimated at 1.31 trillion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 1.78 trillion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.27% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
China's logistics industry is undergoing significant infrastructure transformation, marked by substantial government investments and technological advancements. In 2023, fixed-asset investment in the country's transport system reached a remarkable USD 548.7 billion, demonstrating the government's commitment to strengthening China logistics infrastructure. This investment has facilitated the construction of 7,000 kilometers of new expressways in 2023 alone. The government's ambitious plans extend to developing a comprehensive transportation network of about 700,000 kilometers by 2035, encompassing railways, roads, waterways, and aviation infrastructure. These developments are reshaping the China logistics industry landscape and enhancing connectivity across the nation.
The industry is witnessing a revolutionary shift towards autonomous and smart logistics solutions. Nearly 40% of new energy vehicles sold in China during the first half of 2023 featured advanced driving-assist capabilities, signaling a strong move towards automated transportation solutions. The integration of artificial intelligence and autonomous technologies is particularly evident in last-mile delivery services, with companies deploying smart warehouses and automated sorting systems. This technological transformation is not only improving operational efficiency but also addressing the industry's labor challenges and reducing operational costs.
The maritime sector continues to play a pivotal role in China's logistics framework, with significant developments in port infrastructure and capabilities. Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, for instance, demonstrated remarkable growth in 2023, handling over 1.3 billion tonnes of cargo, marking a 4.94% year-over-year increase. The port's expansion to operate 300 container routes, including 130 routes with Belt and Road partner countries, exemplifies China's growing maritime logistics capabilities. Additionally, the integration of 25 sea-rail intermodal transportation routes connecting 65 prefecture-level cities across 16 Chinese provinces has enhanced the efficiency of multimodal transport operations.
The freight & logistics industry is experiencing notable advancements in cross-border operations and delivery optimization. In 2023, major logistics providers implemented significant improvements in delivery times, with companies like Cainiao Group announcing a 30% reduction in cross-border parcel delivery times. The industry has also seen substantial progress in developing specialized logistics solutions, particularly in cold chain and healthcare logistics. This evolution is supported by the implementation of new technologies and strategic infrastructure developments, including the construction of specialized warehousing facilities and the deployment of smart tracking systems across the logistics network.
China Freight and Logistics Market Trends
Rising focus on developing clean energy infrastructure and transport sector investment under 14th Five-Year Plan driving growth
- In 2023, China's clean energy sector significantly contributed to the country's economic expansion. According to Energy and Clean Air (CREA), China's investment in renewable energy infrastructure amounted to USD 890 billion, almost matching global investments in fossil fuel supply for the same year. Clean energy, including renewable energy sources, nuclear power, electricity grids, energy storage, electric vehicles (EVs), and railways, constituted 9.0% of China's GDP in 2023, up from 7.2% YoY. EV production grew by 36% YoY in 2023.
- In the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), China revealed goals for expanding its transportation network. By 2025, high-speed railways will extend to 50,000 kms, up from 38,000 kms in 2020, with 95% of cities with populations above 500,000 covered by 250-km lines. The country aims to increase its railway length to 165,000 kms, civil airports to over 270, subway lines in cities to 10,000 kms, expressways to 190,000 kms, and high-level inland waterways to 18,500 kms by 2025. The primary objective is to achieve integrated development by 2025, emphasizing advancements in the transformation of the transportation system and its contribution to GDP.
China's retail diesel and gasoline prices were soared to historically high levels amid the Russia-Ukraine War
- In 2023, China imported 11% more crude oil than in 2022, totaling 563.99 mn metric tons (MMT), or 11.28 mn barrels per day. This surge was due to increased global crude oil prices amid the Russia-Ukraine War, causing fuel prices in China to reach historic highs. In Jan-Feb 2024, crude oil imports rose by 5.1% YoY, reaching 88.31 MMT. This increase was driven by purchasing crude oil at lower prices earlier. Brent futures peaked at USD 97.69 in September 2023, fell to USD 72.29 in December, and rose to USD 84.05 by March 2024. The decision made by the OPEC+ group in March 2024 to extend output cuts until the end of June has further boosted crude prices. This move has raised concerns about global oil demand, as the group is reducing production by nearly 6% of world demand. The recent increase in crude prices may also dampen China's imports starting from H2 2024.
- China plans to adjust retail prices for gasoline and diesel to align with recent shifts in global crude oil prices. The price hike reflects a tightening of global supply and a positive forecast for demand. According to NDRC, gasoline and diesel prices in China will increase by USD 28 per ton in 2024. Although there's expectation of declining demand for fuels, oil-based fuels will remain the primary choice until 2035.
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- China's population declined due to the birthrate drop and is projected to fall below 1 billion by 2080
- China strives toward smart manufacturing under the Made in China 2025 Strategy
- China's economic indicators indicated a steady post-pandemic recovery in the first half of 2023
- Marginal PPI rise due to price controls and significant CPI rise witnessed due to increase in food prices
- Chinese e-commerce is set to retain its dominant position and is expected to register a CAGR of 12.17% during 2023-27
- New energy vehicles (NEVs) are expected to account for about 35% of the Chinese domestic market by 2025
- China reigned as the leading automobile exporter in the world, led by a robust domestic car production market
- The rise in domestic demand led to increase in the imports of bulk commodities and essential goods in 2023
- China's driverless vehicles are taking the fast lane to success and are expected to impact operational costs positively
- China's truck sales are hitting new records, with demand for heavy weight trucks sustaining the highest growth
- China climbs to the 19th rank in 2023 LPI, boosted by major investments and a thriving e-commerce sector
- China is expected to witness a surge in the adoption of new-energy vehicles, constituting approximately half of the new car sales by 2030
- Infrastructure investments under the BRI initiative by the government are increasing to facilitate a rise in freight volumes across all modes of transportation
- China became world’s top maritime fleet owner in 2023 due to improved shipping manufacturing and financial aid
- China added 1,000 kilometers of high-grade waterways in 2023
- Port of Shanghai, Port of Ningbo, and Port of Qingdao amongst the top well connected ports
- Road freight rates increased despite a slowdown in demand and ample supply of transport capacity
- China is focusing on expanding its railway network and has an aim of reaching 22,000 km of track by 2025
- Rising GDP growth witnessed fueled by private consumption and strong infrastructure investment through 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025)
Segment Analysis: End User Industry
Manufacturing Segment in China Freight and Logistics Market
The manufacturing segment dominates the China logistics market, commanding approximately 53% of the total market share in 2024. This substantial market position is primarily driven by China's robust electronic information manufacturing industry, which experienced a 9.3% year-over-year growth in fixed-asset investment in 2023. The segment's strength is further evidenced by significant production metrics, including the manufacture of 1.57 billion mobile phones in 2023, representing a 6.9% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the automotive sector has shown remarkable performance, with electric vehicle (EV) production playing a pivotal role in maintaining manufacturing's market leadership. The segment's dominance is reinforced by China's strategic focus on advanced manufacturing and industrial upgrading, supported by government initiatives to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in innovation building and brand promotion.

Construction Segment in China Freight and Logistics Market
The construction segment is emerging as the fastest-growing sector in China's freight & logistics market, projected to expand at approximately 7% annually from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth trajectory is fueled by China's ambitious infrastructure development plans, including the addition of 191GW of new renewable energy capacity in the first ten months of 2023, representing a 90.8% year-over-year increase. The segment's expansion is further supported by significant investments in transport and power infrastructure projects, with particular emphasis on solar power (142GW), wind power (37.3GW), and hydropower (8.4GW) installations. The construction sector's growth is also driven by the government's commitment to establishing a comprehensive transportation network of about 700,000 km by 2035, encompassing approximately 200,000 km of rail tracks, 460,000 km of roads, and extensive waterway infrastructure.
Remaining Segments in End User Industry
The other segments in China's freight and logistics market include oil and gas/mining, wholesale and retail trade, agriculture, and various other industries, each contributing uniquely to the market's dynamics. The oil and gas/mining sector benefits from China's position as the world's largest oil refining capacity holder, while the wholesale and retail trade segment is driven by the country's booming e-commerce sector and strong consumer demand. The agriculture segment maintains its significance through record grain outputs and growing agricultural trade, while other industries contribute through diverse logistics requirements across healthcare, technology, and general commerce sectors. These segments collectively form a comprehensive ecosystem that supports China's position as a global logistics powerhouse.
Segment Analysis: Logistics Function
Freight Transport Segment in China Freight and Logistics Market
The Freight Transport segment dominates the Chinese freight and logistics market share, commanding approximately 52% market share in 2024. This segment's strong performance is driven by China's extensive transportation infrastructure development, including the addition of 1,000 kilometers of high-grade waterways in 2023 and the opening of strategic waterways like the Jianghuai Canal in Anhui Province. The segment's growth is further supported by China's commitment to expanding its transportation network, with plans to establish a comprehensive system spanning about 700,000 km by 2035, comprising 200,000 km of rail tracks, 460,000 km of roads, and 25,000 km of waterways. Additionally, the construction of major infrastructure projects like the Dalian Jinzhou Bay International Airport, China's first airport on an artificial island, demonstrates the country's focus on strengthening its freight transport capabilities.
Air Freight Transport Segment in China Freight and Logistics Market
The Air Freight Transport segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in China's freight and logistics market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 7% between 2024 and 2029. This remarkable growth is fueled by significant developments in aviation infrastructure, including the construction of the world's largest offshore airport in Dalian, scheduled for completion in 2026. The initial phase includes a 500,000 sq. m terminal meeting 4F standards, with Terminal 1 projected to handle 550,000 tons of cargo annually. Express airlines are actively expanding their operations, with major players like DHL Express enhancing their Chengdu to Hong Kong route by upgrading to A330 cargo flights, significantly increasing cargo capacity. The segment's growth is further supported by China's strategic investments in aviation infrastructure, with plans to expand to over 270 civil airports by 2025.
Remaining Segments in Logistics Function
The other significant segments in China's freight and logistics market include Freight Forwarding, Warehousing and Storage, CEP (Courier, Express, and Parcel), and Other Services. The Freight Forwarding segment plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and cross-border logistics operations, particularly along the Belt and Road Initiative routes. The Warehousing and Storage segment is experiencing transformation through automation and technological advancement, with operators increasingly adopting automated solutions to address capacity constraints. The CEP segment continues to evolve with the growth of e-commerce, supported by innovations in delivery services and cross-border logistics solutions. The Other Services segment encompasses various value-added services, including packaging, customs clearance, and specialized logistics solutions, contributing to the market's comprehensive service offerings.
China Freight and Logistics Industry Overview
Top Companies in China Freight and Logistics Market
The leading companies in China's freight and logistics market are actively pursuing innovation and expansion strategies to maintain their competitive positions. Companies are investing heavily in digital transformation initiatives, including the development of online platforms, automated warehousing solutions, and AI-enabled tracking systems to enhance operational efficiency. There is a strong focus on developing sustainable logistics solutions, with many players introducing green transportation options and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Strategic partnerships, particularly in cross-border logistics and e-commerce fulfillment, have become increasingly common as companies seek to expand their service capabilities. Infrastructure development remains a key priority, with significant investments in warehousing facilities, transportation networks, and cold chain logistics to meet growing market demands. Companies are also emphasizing service diversification, expanding from traditional freight forwarding to comprehensive supply chain solutions, including specialized services for high-value industries like healthcare and electronics.
Market Dominated by Diverse Player Mix
The Chinese logistics market exhibits a fragmented structure with a mix of state-owned enterprises, private domestic players, and international logistics giants. Local players like SF Express and Sinotrans maintain strong market positions through their extensive domestic networks and deep understanding of regional markets, while global players such as DHL, Kuehne+Nagel, and DB Schenker leverage their international expertise and advanced technological capabilities. The market is characterized by ongoing consolidation activities, particularly in specialized segments like cold chain logistics and e-commerce fulfillment, as companies seek to achieve economies of scale and expand their service portfolios. The presence of numerous regional players alongside major national and international companies creates a highly competitive environment, driving continuous innovation and service improvement.
The market has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, particularly in the e-commerce logistics and last-mile delivery segments. Companies are increasingly pursuing strategic acquisitions to expand their geographical presence, enhance technological capabilities, and strengthen their position in specialized market segments. International players are forming joint ventures with local companies to better penetrate the Chinese logistics market, while domestic players are acquiring smaller regional operators to expand their network coverage. This consolidation trend is expected to continue as companies seek to build comprehensive end-to-end logistics solutions and achieve operational synergies through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the Chinese freight and logistics market increasingly depends on companies' ability to embrace technological innovation and sustainable practices. Market leaders are investing in advanced technologies like blockchain, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency and provide better visibility across supply chains. The development of specialized solutions for high-growth sectors such as e-commerce, healthcare, and cold chain logistics has become crucial for maintaining competitive advantage. Companies are also focusing on building robust last-mile delivery networks and implementing sustainable practices to meet evolving customer expectations and regulatory requirements. The ability to offer integrated solutions that combine traditional logistics services with value-added services like customs clearance, warehousing, and supply chain consulting is becoming increasingly important.
Future success in the market will require companies to maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders while adapting to changing market dynamics. Players must focus on developing flexible and resilient supply chain solutions that can withstand disruptions and meet evolving customer needs. The ability to leverage data analytics for predictive planning and optimization will become increasingly critical for maintaining competitive advantage. Companies must also navigate regulatory changes, particularly those related to environmental protection and cross-border trade, while maintaining operational efficiency. Building strong partnerships with technology providers and investing in workforce development will be essential for long-term success in this rapidly evolving market.
China Freight and Logistics Market Leaders
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Deppon Logistics Co., Ltd.
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Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.
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SF Express (KEX-SF)
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Shanghai YTO Express (Logistics) Co., Ltd.
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SINOTRANS
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
China Freight and Logistics Market News
- September 2024: DHL Express launched a new direct flight route from Hong Kong to Jakarta, Indonesia, enhancing its transit times. The dedicated flight, utilizing the B737-800 freighter, operated four times weekly. By flying directly from Hong Kong to Jakarta, this new service offered a non-stop alternative. The B737-800 freighter, boasting a 20-ton payload capacity, handled everything from e-commerce packages to larger consignments. It transports shipments originating from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Vietnam via the Central Asia Hub in Hong Kong.
- September 2024: DSV completed the acquisition of Schenker from Deutsche Bahn for EUR 14.3 billion (around USD 15.78 billion). Following the acquisition, DSV and Schenker was expected to achieve a combined revenue of about EUR 39.3 billion (USD 43.73 billion) (based on 2023 estimates) and employ roughly 147,000 individuals across over 90 nations. Beyond expanding its global footprint, the Schenker acquisition was expected to enhance DSV's growth trajectory and its commitment to a more sustainable, digital future in transport and logistics.
- July 2024: DHL Express introduced a range of digital tools aimed at empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to broaden their global reach and enhance their international trade and shipping endeavors. These tools were designed to assist resource-limited SMEs in efficiently navigating cross-border shipping logistics, facilitating smoother import and export activities from diverse sources and locations. Among the suite of digital solutions crafted by DHL Express were My Global Trade Services (myGTS), DHL Express Commerce, Track & Trace, DHL Pass, and On Demand Delivery. In addition to digital tools, DHL Express also introduced the GoTrade program, which supports small businesses in trading their goods internationally.
China Freight and Logistics Market Report - Table of Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS
2. REPORT OFFERS
3. INTRODUCTION
- 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
- 3.2 Scope of the Study
- 3.3 Research Methodology
4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS
- 4.1 Demographics
- 4.2 GDP Distribution By Economic Activity
- 4.3 GDP Growth By Economic Activity
- 4.4 Inflation
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4.5 Economic Performance And Profile
- 4.5.1 Trends in E-Commerce Industry
- 4.5.2 Trends in Manufacturing Industry
- 4.6 Transport And Storage Sector GDP
- 4.7 Export Trends
- 4.8 Import Trends
- 4.9 Fuel Price
- 4.10 Trucking Operational Costs
- 4.11 Trucking Fleet Size By Type
- 4.12 Logistics Performance
- 4.13 Major Truck Suppliers
- 4.14 Modal Share
- 4.15 Maritime Fleet Load Carrying Capacity
- 4.16 Liner Shipping Connectivity
- 4.17 Port Calls And Performance
- 4.18 Freight Pricing Trends
- 4.19 Freight Tonnage Trends
- 4.20 Infrastructure
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4.21 Regulatory Framework (Road and Rail)
- 4.21.1 China
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4.22 Regulatory Framework (Sea and Air)
- 4.22.1 China
- 4.23 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes 1. Market value in USD for all segments 2. Market volume for select segments viz. freight transport, CEP (courier, express, and parcel) and warehousing & storage 3. Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)
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5.1 End User Industry
- 5.1.1 Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry
- 5.1.2 Construction
- 5.1.3 Manufacturing
- 5.1.4 Oil and Gas, Mining and Quarrying
- 5.1.5 Wholesale and Retail Trade
- 5.1.6 Others
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5.2 Logistics Function
- 5.2.1 Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP)
- 5.2.1.1 By Destination Type
- 5.2.1.1.1 Domestic
- 5.2.1.1.2 International
- 5.2.2 Freight Forwarding
- 5.2.2.1 By Mode Of Transport
- 5.2.2.1.1 Air
- 5.2.2.1.2 Sea and Inland Waterways
- 5.2.2.1.3 Others
- 5.2.3 Freight Transport
- 5.2.3.1 By Mode Of Transport
- 5.2.3.1.1 Air
- 5.2.3.1.2 Pipelines
- 5.2.3.1.3 Rail
- 5.2.3.1.4 Road
- 5.2.3.1.5 Sea and Inland Waterways
- 5.2.4 Warehousing and Storage
- 5.2.4.1 By Temperature Control
- 5.2.4.1.1 Non-Temperature Controlled
- 5.2.4.1.2 Temperature Controlled
- 5.2.5 Other Services
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis
- 6.3 Company Landscape
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6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global Level Overview, Market Level Overview, Core Business Segments, Financials, Headcount, Key Information, Market Rank, Market Share, Products and Services, and Analysis of Recent Developments).
- 6.4.1 Deppon Logistics Co., Ltd.
- 6.4.2 Deutsche Bahn AG (including DB Schenker)
- 6.4.3 DHL Group
- 6.4.4 Dimerco
- 6.4.5 DSV A/S (De Sammensluttede Vognmænd af Air and Sea)
- 6.4.6 Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.
- 6.4.7 Kuehne+Nagel
- 6.4.8 SF Express (KEX-SF)
- 6.4.9 Shanghai YTO Express (Logistics) Co., Ltd.
- 6.4.10 SINOTRANS
- 6.4.11 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. (UPS)
7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS CEOS
8. APPENDIX
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8.1 Global Overview
- 8.1.1 Overview
- 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
- 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
- 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (Market Drivers, Restraints & Opportunities)
- 8.1.5 Technological Advancements
- 8.2 Sources & References
- 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
- 8.4 Primary Insights
- 8.5 Data Pack
- 8.6 Glossary of Terms
- 8.7 Currency Exchange Rate
China Freight and Logistics Industry Segmentation
Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry, Construction, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas, Mining and Quarrying, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Others are covered as segments by End User Industry. Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP), Freight Forwarding, Freight Transport, Warehousing and Storage are covered as segments by Logistics Function.End User Industry | Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry | |||
Construction | ||||
Manufacturing | ||||
Oil and Gas, Mining and Quarrying | ||||
Wholesale and Retail Trade | ||||
Others | ||||
Logistics Function | Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP) | By Destination Type | Domestic | |
International | ||||
Freight Forwarding | By Mode Of Transport | Air | ||
Sea and Inland Waterways | ||||
Others | ||||
Freight Transport | By Mode Of Transport | Air | ||
Pipelines | ||||
Rail | ||||
Road | ||||
Sea and Inland Waterways | ||||
Warehousing and Storage | By Temperature Control | Non-Temperature Controlled | ||
Temperature Controlled | ||||
Other Services |
China Freight and Logistics Market Research FAQs
How big is the China Freight and Logistics Market?
The China Freight and Logistics Market size is expected to reach USD 1310.98 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 6.27% to reach USD 1776.48 billion by 2030.
What is the current China Freight and Logistics Market size?
In 2025, the China Freight and Logistics Market size is expected to reach USD 1310.98 billion.
Who are the key players in China Freight and Logistics Market?
Deppon Logistics Co., Ltd., Expeditors International of Washington, Inc., SF Express (KEX-SF), Shanghai YTO Express (Logistics) Co., Ltd. and SINOTRANS are the major companies operating in the China Freight and Logistics Market.
Which segment has the biggest share in the China Freight and Logistics Market?
In the China Freight and Logistics Market, the Freight Transport segment accounts for the largest share by logistics function.
Which is the fastest growing segment in the China Freight and Logistics Market?
In 2025, the Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP) segment accounts for the fastest growing by logistics function in the China Freight and Logistics Market.
What years does this China Freight and Logistics Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?
In 2025, the China Freight and Logistics Market size was estimated at 1310.98 billion. The report covers the China Freight and Logistics Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the China Freight and Logistics Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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China Freight and Logistics Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the China freight and logistics industry. We leverage our extensive expertise in logistics industry statistics and market analysis. Our detailed report examines the evolving landscape of logistics services in China. It encompasses sectors such as cargo transportation, freight management, and warehouse storage. The research offers in-depth coverage of transportation and supply chain management in China. It pays particular attention to emerging trends in freight & logistics operations across major industrial hubs.
Stakeholders seeking insights into the China logistics market will find valuable data on logistics market size and growth projections. This information is available in an easy-to-read report PDF format for immediate download. The analysis covers crucial aspects of freight in China, including global freight dynamics, logistics industry developments, and regional distribution patterns. Our report offers actionable intelligence on China shipping market trends. This enables businesses to optimize their operations and capitalize on emerging opportunities in this dynamic market landscape.