The high tariff rates also reduced the competitiveness of air cargo operators. It went against the promises made by the leadership of both countries. It could take years to recover. Moreover, weak demand for the other's products are forcing airlines to shift their focus towards routes to Europe, America, South Korea and Japan. More than half of Chinese exports to Russia include light industrial products, such as textiles, clothing, and food.
China buys Russian timber, steel, and chemical fertiliser.
Mechanical products and other high value-added equipment, the mainstay of the air cargo industry, are shipped in small proportions. Meanwhile, air cargo's losses have translated into gains for China's rail and river transport industries. Imports and exports not entering or leaving China by air are being taken over by rail, road or ship. For example, road and rail transport is thriving in Xinjiang-Uygur Autonomous Region. The Euroasia Continental Bridge is sending tonnes of imports and exports back and forth, thanks to better containerisation of rail cargo.