Performance Evaluation and Strategic Analysis of Logistics Development for China Railway Express: A Spatial Connectivity Perspective

Abstract

Amid global challenges like COVID-19 and trade wars, resilient logistics networks are crucial. The China Railway Express (CRE) offers a sustainable alternative to sea and air transport, supporting China’s national logistics strategy and strengthening links between China and Europe. This study applies a three-stage Social Network Analysis (SNA) to CRE using a “point–line–network” approach. It evaluates city logistics with the entropy weight method, modifies the gravity model to assess intercity logistical gravity, and constructs a weighted network to analyze centrality evolution through SNA. The results show that cities such as Zhengzhou, Wuhan, and Chongqing have emerged as central logistics hubs, benefiting from strategic investments in infrastructure and multimodal systems. However, regional disparities persist, with cities like Harbin, Lanzhou, and Urumqi facing challenges in integration due to infrastructure deficits and geographic constraints. Furthermore, inefficiencies in border logistics, inconsistent customs procedures, and limited multimodal integration hinder the CRE’s potential. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure investment, unified customs standards, multimodal hub development, and advanced technologies like IoT and blockchain is crucial for enhancing connectivity and competitiveness. The findings offer actionable recommendations for policymakers, logistics firms, and researchers, contributing to the sustainable optimization of the CRE within global supply chains.

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