The first freight train service linking northern China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region with Kazakhstan launched on July 27, 2016.

The train, which was loaded with building materials and other commodities, left Jiuyuan Logistics Park in Baotou City Wednesday morning. The 4, 332-km trip to Astana, capital of Kazakhstan, will take eight days.

On its return journey, the train will carry goods such as mineral resources, according to a Hohhot Railway Bureau official.