Zongxiang export a batch of a75 crane rail to Turkey

In a significant milestone for China's rail manufacturing sector, Henan Zongxiang Heavy Industry Import & Export Co., Ltd. (Zongxiang), a leading supplier of steel rails and track accessories, has successfully exported a substantial batch of A75 crane rails to Turkey. This shipment, comprising over 200 tons of premium-grade A75 rails, marks another chapter in Zongxiang's expanding footprint in the Eurasian market. The delivery, finalized in early October 2025, underscores the growing demand for high-quality Chinese rail products amid Turkey's ambitious infrastructure modernization drive. As global trade corridors evolve, this export not only bolsters bilateral economic relations but also highlights Zongxiang's commitment to precision engineering and reliable supply chains.

The A75 crane rail, a cornerstone of heavy-duty industrial applications, is engineered to European Standard DIN 536, ensuring compatibility with international crane systems. Weighing 56.2 kg per meter, the rail features a robust profile with a wide head (75 mm), tapered waist, and broad base, optimized for distributing loads up to 50 tons per axle. Crafted from high-strength U71Mn or equivalent 900A grade steel, these rails exhibit exceptional wear resistance, fracture toughness, and weldability—critical for environments with dynamic stresses, vibrations, and frequent start-stops. At Zongxiang's state-of-the-art facility in Henan Province, each rail undergoes rigorous quality controls, including ultrasonic testing for internal defects and dimensional inspections to tolerances of ±0.5 mm. This batch was hot-rolled using advanced metallurgical processes, heat-treated for enhanced hardness (HB 260-300), and surfaced with anti-corrosion coatings to withstand Turkey's variable coastal climates.

Turkey's selection of Zongxiang as the supplier stems from the nation's surging need for upgraded port and industrial infrastructure. With the Port of Istanbul and Izmir's container terminals handling over 15 million TEUs annually, crane efficiency is paramount. The A75 rails are destined for a major expansion at the Mersin International Port, where they'll support new gantry cranes in ship-to-shore operations. This project aligns with Turkey's National Infrastructure Strategy 2023-2030, aiming to triple rail-dependent logistics capacity by 2035. Turkish authorities, facing delays in European sourcing due to supply chain disruptions, turned to Asian partners like Zongxiang for cost-effective, timely deliveries. Priced competitively at around $850 per ton (FOB Qingdao), the batch offers a 15-20% savings over Western alternatives, without compromising on standards. Zongxiang's prior exports—such as 50 tons to South Africa in 2024 and 20 tons to Vietnam earlier this year—have built trust through seamless logistics, including insured sea freight via the Belt and Road Initiative routes.

The export process exemplifies Zongxiang's end-to-end expertise. Negotiations began in June 2025 with Turkish firm Denizcilik Logistics, involving virtual site audits and sample certifications. Production ramped up within four weeks, leveraging Zongxiang's 500,000-ton annual capacity. Packaging adhered to ISPM 15 standards, with rails bundled in 12-meter lengths, secured against saltwater corrosion during the 25-day voyage from Tianjin Port to Istanbul. Customs clearance was expedited through Turkey's E-Trade Gateway, reflecting strengthened China-Turkey ties post the 2024 Free Trade Agreement upgrade.

This transaction yields multifaceted benefits. For Turkey, it accelerates port throughput, potentially boosting GDP contributions from logistics by 2-3% annually. Environmentally, A75 rails' low-deformation design reduces energy consumption in crane operations by up to 10%, supporting Turkey's green port initiatives. Zongxiang gains market diversification, with Turkey now accounting for 8% of its overseas revenue, up from 3% in 2023. The deal fosters technology transfer, as Zongxiang shares welding protocols for seamless integration with local tracks.

Looking ahead, Zongxiang eyes further collaborations, including QU100 variants for Turkey's high-speed rail extensions. As global supply chains prioritize resilience, this export reaffirms China's role in sustainable infrastructure. Zongxiang's CEO, Li Wei, stated, "Delivering A75 excellence to Turkey bridges continents and builds futures." In an era of interconnected economies, such ventures propel progress, one rail at a time.