A new digital customs clearance model combining the international road transport (TIR ) system with expressway green-channel benefits was launched in China (Inner Mongolia) Pilot Free Trade Zone (Inner Mongolia FTZ) on Oct 13.

According to Hohhot Customs, a truck carrying fresh fruit departed from Hohhot Comprehensive Bonded Zone for Mongolia, marking one of the first export shipments in the Inner Mongolia FTZ to use the new model.

Previously, fresh produce and other perishable agricultural goods transported under TIR procedures could not benefit from green-channel toll exemptions. Under TIR rules, vehicles are sealed at the point of departure and generally remain unopened during transit, making it difficult for transport authorities to verify cargo eligibility without repeating inspections.

To address this issue, Hohhot Customs worked with other government departments to develop a digital supervision model using the GS1 global identification system. Each TIR vehicle is assigned a unique QR code, enabling transport authorities to verify cargo information by scanning the code after customs inspection and sealing, without reopening the vehicle. Eligible shipments can then receive expressway toll exemptions.

The new model lets customs and transport authorities share verification results, improving coordination between departments while maintaining effective oversight. It also streamlines clearance procedures and reduces cross-border logistics costs for exporters, enhancing the competitiveness of Inner Mongolia's agricultural products in overseas markets.