The first business to business (B2B) cross-border e-commerce platform for Russian-speaking countries in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region recently began operations.

The platform (www.zakupki7.com) is designed to increase the volume of trade with countries along the Silk Road Economic Belt – an ancient trade route stretching from China to Central Asia and Europe.

B2B refers to the selling of goods and services by one company to another.

Through the platform, foreign purchasers can connect directly with Chinese suppliers to allow the two sides to negotiate business online. The platform also provides consulting services on investment, trade, logistics and payment.

The platform was established by International Consultant Company, which is located at the State High-tech Industry Zone in the city of Urumqi.

By Yang Fan and edited by Jacob Hooson