Chinese NEVs taking to S. Asia streets

China's new energy vehicle exports to South Asia through Xizang autonomous region border ports have surged to new heights, with 12,938 units exported in 2025, marking an impressive 6.8 percent year-on-year growth, said Lhasa Customs.

This milestone underscores the growing synergy between China's NEV industry and the rising demand in South Asian markets, facilitated by Xizang's role as a vital gateway for regional trade.

In March 2025, a train loaded with 150 NEVs departed from Zhengzhou in Central China's Henan province and arrived at Shigatse Inland Port. From there, it entered Nepal via an innovative customs model introduced by Lhasa Customs, labeled "inland-port declaration, local inspection, port direct clearance".

This operational breakthrough has shortened the transport time for Chinese NEVs to Nepal to just 10 days, significantly boosting cross-border logistics efficiency and marking the dawn of the "train era" for NEV exports.

At Zhangmu Port, rows of domestically manufactured NEVs await their journey along the Zhangmu ancient trade route to Nepal. To further streamline trade, customs officials have initiated measures such as "policy outreach by directors","one-on-one enterprise liaison", and pre-clearance mechanisms like advance declaration, document pre-approval and immediate inspection upon arrival.

Thanks to these efforts, exports via Zhangmu Port reached 6,048 units in 2025, a remarkable 33.36 percent increase over the previous year, it said.

The popularity of Chinese NEVs in South Asian countries such as Nepal stems from their energy efficiency, affordability and alignment with local transportation needs. Renowned brands like Dongfeng and BYD have gained widespread recognition in the region, cementing the foothold of Chinese-made NEVs in an increasingly competitive market.

Beyond contributing to trade, the burgeoning NEV export industry is also generating tangible economic benefits for residents in border areas. At Letse Port in the region's Drongba county, locals have actively engaged in ancillary services such as loading, unloading and transporting NEVs.

For residents like Dradul from Letse, this economic activity has become a significant source of income.

"By providing short-distance transport services, I can earn 50 yuan ($7) per trip, and each truckload transfer brings 1,500 yuan, these opportunities have genuinely improved our income levels and quality of life," Dradul said.

Meanwhile, stakeholders are optimistic about the growth potential of Nepal's NEV market. A representative from Shengcheng International Logistics highlighted the country's advantages, including favorable policies, resource availability and robust demand, becoming a potential market for the export of NEVs.

Although there are current challenges in infrastructure, awareness and industry support, the overall outlook for development is positive, the representative added.

Contact the writers at palden_nyima@chinadaily.com.cn