Xiamen Port in East Chinas Fujian province ranks first in China in terms of business environment. [Photo/xmnn.cn]

Xiamen Port in East China's Fujian province has been ranked first in China in terms of business environment, according to a report released at a news conference held in Wuxi, Jiangsu province on Dec 11. The ports of Qingdao and Ningbo were ranked second and third respectively.

The report, which evaluated ports based on 27 factors such as regulatory environment, commercial services and paperless customs clearance, was released by the China Customs Brokers Association.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic this year and the resulting economic situation, Xiamen Port has made great efforts to stabilize foreign trade. An array of supportive policies has been rolled out to help local enterprises overcome difficulties.

Due to its continuous efforts, Xiamen Port has witnessed positive growth in foreign trade, according to local officials.

Additionally, the port has sped up its digital transformation and upgraded its digital infrastructure through an automated port renovation project and the construction of an intelligent terminal which has made remote and unmanned operations possible.

Innovative measures such as the use of electronic payments have greatly reduced the waiting time for the loading and unloading of ships. Special funds have also been allocated to support the development of the container business.

The city has also leveraged the establishment of the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution innovation center in Xiamen to further promote the liberalization of cross-border trade as part of efforts to foster a world-class business environment of container ports.