The China Cold Chain Logistics Market is Segmented by Service Type (Refrigerated Storage, Refrigerated Transportation and More), by Temperature Type (Chilled (0–5 °C), Frozen (-18–0 °C) and More), by Application (Fruits & Vegetables, Meat & Poultry, Fish & Seafood, Dairy & Frozen Desserts and More), by Region (East China, North China, South-Central China, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The size of the cold chain logistics market in China exceeded *********** yuan in 2024, showing a *** percent increase from the previous year. A cold chain logistics is a temperature-controlled supply chain service, which involves the storage and transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, such as fresh food.

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China Cold Chain Market Size 2024-2028

The China cold chain market size is forecast to increase by USD 151.5 billion at a CAGR of 27.18% between 2023 and 2028.

Market growth is driven by factors such as the rising demand for frozen and perishable goods in China, growing initiatives to advance cold chains in China, and an increasing number of trade corridors. This development significantly influences market trends, particularly within the temperature-controlled logistics sector. With the surging need for pharmaceuticals, food, and healthcare products, there is an urgent requirement for proficient storage, transportation, and refrigeration solutions, such as temperature-controlled pharmaceutical packaging. 
As the demand for these items escalates, the supply chain must adapt to ensure timely and efficient delivery, underscoring the importance of logistics and supply chain management in meeting user expectations. The Chinese market is witnessing significant growth with advances in refrigerated warehousing and automation in cold chain logistics. Cold chain operations are increasingly vital for pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and fresh food distribution. Innovations in last-mile delivery and temperature-controlled packaging are improving efficiency. Additionally, sustainability in cold chain operations is becoming a priority, driving improvements across the sector to meet rising e-commerce demand and ensure product integrity.

What will be the size of the China Cold Chain Market during the forecast period?

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The market is a significant sector, focusing on the transportation and storage of fresh produce and temperature-sensitive goods. The Chinese Government enforces stringent regulations to ensure food safety standards are met. RFID technology, data analytics, and AI are integral to optimizing cold chain logistics. The packaging segment plays a crucial role, with reefer containers and temperature-controlled storage systems, including refrigerated warehouses, walk-in coolers, freezers, and refrigerated containers, being essential. Temperature sensors, data loggers, and real-time tracking systems are crucial software solutions for monitoring and maintaining the required temperatures In the chilled and deep frozen segments. E-commerce and online grocery platforms have fuelled the demand for frozen bakery items, frozen meat products, and fruits & vegetables.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Refrigerated warehouse
  Refrigerated transportation


Application

  Meat fish and seafood sector
  Dairy and frozen desserts sector
  Fruits and vegetables sector
  Healthcare sector
  Bakery and confectionery sector


Product Type

  Chilled
  Frozen


Geography

  China

By Type Insights

The refrigerated warehouse segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market witnesses significant growth due to the increasing demand for eggs, aquatic products, and fresh agricultural products from the expanding middle and upper-middle class population. With rising disposable income and changing consumption patterns, Chinese residents are prioritizing the consumption of fresh food, including medicine and perishable goods. The solutions have become essential to ensure food safety and maintain the quality of these products. E-commerce players, such as JD, and logistics giants, including United Parcel Service, are investing heavily in cold chain infrastructure to meet the needs of the seafood, quick-frozen food, Fruit & vegetable market, and seafood market.
The Chinese government is also investing in the market to improve food safety and support the biotech industry's growth. Biotech firms specializing in genomics and rare genetic diseases require temperature-controlled facilities to store medical information and samples. The solutions are crucial for the preservation and transportation of these valuable resources. The market is expected to continue its growth trajectory as the country's economy develops and consumer habits evolve. Western rivals are also entering the market, increasing competition and driving innovation in these solutions.

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The refrigerated warehouse segment was valued at USD 18.20 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

What are the key market drivers leading to the ris

The China cold chain logistics market is booming, projected to reach $184.8 billion by 2033, driven by e-commerce growth and rising consumer demand. Learn about market trends, key players, and growth opportunities in this dynamic sector. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Increasing International Trade Driving the Market4.; Increasing online users driving the market. Potential restraints include: 4., Regulatory Compliance Affecting the Market4.; High Competition in the Market. Notable trends are: Changes in Consumer Habits Fueling the Demand for Cold Chain Facilities.

In 2023, the size of the cold chain logistics market in China reached *** billion yuan, showing a *** percent increase from the previous year. In the first nine months of 2024, the cold chain logistics market exceeded *** billion yuan. A cold chain logistics is a temperature-controlled supply chain service, which involves the storage and transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, such as fresh food.

The China cold chain logistics market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach $85.82 billion in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.07% from 2025 to 2033. This significant expansion is driven by several key factors. Rising consumer demand for fresh produce, processed foods, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce deliveries requiring temperature-controlled transportation fuels market growth. Furthermore, increasing government investments in cold chain infrastructure, including improved warehousing and transportation networks, are creating a more favorable environment for market players. The burgeoning middle class and their increasing disposable incomes are driving higher consumption of temperature-sensitive products, further stimulating market expansion. However, challenges such as the need for advanced technology adoption, stringent regulatory compliance, and the high initial investment costs associated with cold chain infrastructure development act as restraints on the market's growth trajectory. The market is segmented by various factors including temperature range, product type, and transportation mode, offering opportunities for specialized services and niche players. Key players like CJ Rokin Logistics, SF Express, and Nichirei Logistics Group are actively shaping the market through strategic expansions, technological innovation, and partnerships. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with both domestic and international companies vying for market share. While larger established players possess significant advantages in terms of infrastructure and reach, smaller, specialized companies are gaining traction by offering tailored solutions and catering to specific market segments. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates sustained growth, driven by ongoing urbanization, evolving consumer preferences, and the continuous expansion of e-commerce, especially in the food and healthcare sectors. However, maintaining this growth trajectory will depend on addressing the challenges mentioned above and adapting to the evolving needs of a rapidly growing market. The robust CAGR of 10.07% indicates significant investment opportunities and future market dominance for players capable of innovating and efficiently managing the complexities of the cold chain logistics sector. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Increasing International Trade Driving the Market4.; Increasing online users driving the market. Potential restraints include: 4., Regulatory Compliance Affecting the Market4.; High Competition in the Market. Notable trends are: Changes in Consumer Habits Fueling the Demand for Cold Chain Facilities.

The China cold chain market is expected to grow at a CAGR of about 12.90% in the forecast period of 2025-2034, driven by the rising demand for frozen food products and the higher availability of enhanced packaging material.

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Cold Chain Market Size 2025-2029

The cold chain market size is forecast to increase by USD 622.8 billion at a CAGR of 20.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key trends and factors. One such trend is the increasing adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in cold chain logistics to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency. Another trend is the rising number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities among market players to expand their footprint and strengthen their market position.
However, the lack of proper logistics and transportation infrastructure in developing countries poses a major challenge to the market growth. This report provides an in-depth analysis of these trends and growth factors, offering valuable insights into the current state and future direction of the market.

What will be the Cold Chain Market Size During the Forecast Period?

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The market plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of convenience food products, particularly those with a short shelf life, such as ready-to-eat food items and protein-rich foods. Retail chains have a significant impact on this market, as they require reliable and efficient cold chain infrastructure to maintain the freshness and quality of perishable items. Trade liberalization has led to an increase in cross-border commerce, expanding the market for cold chain solutions beyond domestic boundaries. The rise of online groceries and the digital food industry has further fueled the demand for refrigerated transportation and cold storage logistics.
Similarly, spoilage and contamination are major concerns in the market, and energy-efficient technologies, such as refrigerated vehicles and advanced warehouse management systems, are being adopted to minimize these risks. Rising fuel costs have also led to the development of energy-efficient technologies, including IoT-enabled monitoring systems and cloud computing solutions. The refrigerated storage market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing popularity of quick-frozen foods, bakery products, and carbohydrate-rich diets. Inventory management and warehouse optimization are essential aspects of cold chain logistics, and the use of advanced technologies, such as RFID tags and automated storage and retrieval systems, is becoming increasingly common.

In conclusion, the cold chain infrastructure is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of a wide range of perishable items, from food products to pharmaceuticals. The market for cold chain solutions is dynamic and constantly evolving, driven by factors such as changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and regulatory requirements.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Refrigerated warehouse
  Refrigerated transportation


Application

  Meat fish and seafood
  Fruits vegetables and beverages
  Dairy and frozen desserts
  Bakery and confectionery
  Healthcare


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Type Insights

The refrigerated warehouse segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses insulated containers, storage equipment, deep freezers, refrigerators, vaccine carriers, off-grid storage systems, and RFID technology for the preservation of perishable items, including frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, and crops. With the rise of the foodservice sector, online groceries, and the digital food industry, the demand for efficient cold chain infrastructure has significantly increased. Refrigerated warehouses, such as blast chillers and freezers, play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and freshness of temperature-sensitive products, from quick-frozen foods to bakery products. As international trade expands, the need for reliable cold chain solutions becomes increasingly important for businesses to ensure product integrity and minimize spoilage.

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The refrigerated warehouse segment was valued at USD 119.50 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 40% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on th

China Cold Chain Logistics Market size was valued at USD 17.2 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 51.9 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 14.8% from 2025 to 2032.

Key Market Drivers: Growing E-commerce Fresh Food Market: The growing e-commerce fresh food sector will propel the China cold chain logistics market. According to the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing (CFLP), China's fresh food e-commerce business would be worth 458.5 billion yuan in 2023, a 23.4% increase over the previous year. This rapid expansion has raised the demand for cold chain logistics, which ensures that fresh food is transported and delivered safely and at the correct temperature. To match consumer expectations for freshness and quality, e-commerce companies are spending extensively in cold chain infrastructure, particularly last-mile delivery solutions, which is fueling the growth of the cold chain logistics market.

The China Cold Chain Market size was valued at USD 11.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 37.07 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 18.8 % during the forecasts period.

China Cold Chain Automation Market valued at USD 20 Bn, driven by demand for perishable goods in food and pharma sectors, tech advancements like IoT, and e-commerce growth. Forecasted to expand with government regulations.

The global cold chain market is booming, projected to reach $1.7 trillion by 2033, driven by e-commerce, rising incomes, and food safety regulations. Learn about market trends, key players, and growth opportunities in this comprehensive analysis.

The China Cold Chain Logistics market was valued more than USD 74 Billion in 2023, due to supportive regulatory landscape.

This can be advocated from the fact that processed meat and seafood industry increased from USD ~ billion in 2012 to USD ~ billion in 2014. Total cold storage capacity accounted to ~ m/m cube while the refrigerated trucks increased to ~ in 2017.

The global cold chain logistics market was valued at USD 306.71 Billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.80% during the forecast period of 2025-2034. Growing emphasis on last-mile temperature-controlled delivery for pharmaceuticals and perishables is significantly reshaping B2B logistics frameworks, especially across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. As a result, the market is projected to reach a value of USD 935.72 Billion by 2034.

Cold chain logistics has emerged as a vital infrastructure pillar, ensuring food security, pharmaceutical reliability, and resilience in cross-border trade. In 2023, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that up to 14% of the world’s food is lost post-harvest, largely due to lack of cold infrastructure, thereby highlighting a direct link between logistics and global supply sustainability.

Furthermore, governments and private sectors are making large investments to support food security and vaccine distribution. For instance, the United States Department of Agriculture allocated over USD 300 million in 2023 to expand cold storage under its Food Supply Chain Guaranteed Loan Program. Meanwhile, India’s cold chain sector attracted USD 7.8 billion in FDI between 2020–2024, with Reliance Retail and Amazon investing in temperature-controlled logistics, promoting the cold chain logistics market development.

Moreover, AI-powered temperature sensors, blockchain-backed transparency, and real-time reefer monitoring are transforming the market dynamics. For instance, Maersk launched its Remote Container Management (RCM) platform, enabling 24/7 visibility across its reefer fleet, enhancing trust for exporters of sensitive cargo like biotech and seafood. In November 2024, Hapag-Lloyd partnered with HERE Technologies to integrate advanced tracking solutions, equipping over 1.5 million containers with tracking devices to enhance inland Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) calculations across global transportation networks. At the same time, Alibaba-backed Cainiao has been implementing blockchain to authenticate cold chain movements in pharmaceutical shipments.

Demand for biopharmaceuticals, especially mRNA-based drugs and temperature-sensitive vaccines, has driven substantial investment in cold storage infrastructure, accelerating the cold chain logistics market opportunities. Countries like Brazil and Indonesia are building regional cold hubs with multi-zone temperature control to support these efforts.

In the food and beverage sector, China’s cold chain network has expanded nearly fivefold since 2016, reaching over 60 million cubic meters in volume by 2023. The constant demand in this country is sustained by government subsidies and digital technology adoptions. Additionally, the rise of quick commerce platforms, such as Instacart and Zomato in India, has added another dimension to last-mile refrigeration logistics, especially in urban zones, boosting the Asia Pacific market.

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Cold Chain Logistics Market For Pharmaceuticals Industry Size 2025-2029

The cold chain logistics market for pharmaceuticals industry size is forecast to increase by USD 14.56 billion at a CAGR of 9.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The cold chain logistics market for the pharmaceuticals industry is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for biopharmaceuticals and consumer healthcare products. The consolidation In the global healthcare logistics industry is driving market expansion, with third-party logistics providers increasingly offering specialized services in cold chain logistics. However, functional barriers in cold chain logistics, such as the need for specialized real estate, HVAC systems, and insulated containers, increase operational costs. Advancements in technology are playing a crucial role in mitigating these challenges. For instance, the implementation of blockchain technology in pharmaceutical logistics enhances traceability and security, ensuring the integrity of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals like vaccines and insulin during transportation.Furthermore, software solutions utilizing predictive analytics and machine learning enable efficient monitoring of cold chain conditions and proactive intervention in case of deviations. In the realm of freight logistics, air freight remains the preferred mode for transporting temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals due to its speed and ability to maintain consistent temperatures. However, the high cost of air freight is a significant challenge, necessitating the optimization of packaging and labeling to minimize damage and reduce wastage. In conclusion, the cold chain logistics market for pharmaceuticals is poised for growth, driven by the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and advancements in technology.However, challenges such as high operational costs and the need for specialized infrastructure persist, necessitating continuous innovation and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of these vital products.

What will be the Size of the Cold Chain Logistics Market For Pharmaceuticals Industry during the forecast period?

Request Free SampleThe cold chain logistics market for the pharmaceutical industry is a critical sector ensuring the integrity and efficacy of temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products, including novel drugs, vaccines, biopharmaceuticals, clinical trial materials, and over-the-counter medicines. This market encompasses various stages from transportation in refrigerated or frozen conditions to storage in specialized facilities, labeling, last-mile delivery, and distribution to hospitals & clinics. The market's size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for temperature-controlled logistics due to the growing number of temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products. Refrigerated temperature, frozen temperature, and cryogenic temperature logistics are essential for maintaining the efficacy of these products. Key trends include the implementation of advanced technologies like telematics for real-time temperature monitoring and improved supply chain visibility.Sea freight logistics, air freight logistics, and overland logistics are used for transportation, with hubs-to-distributor models optimizing distribution networks. Ambient temperature logistics also play a role In the pharmaceutical supply chain, but the demand for cold chain logistics is expected to continue growing due to the increasing prevalence of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.

How is this Cold Chain Logistics For Pharmaceuticals Industry Industry segmented?

The cold chain logistics for pharmaceuticals industry industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ProductVaccinesBiopharmaceuticalsClinical trial materialsServiceWarehousing and VASTransportationMode of DeliveryLast-Mile DeliveryHubs-to-DistributorTemperature RangeAmbientRefrigeratedFrozenCryogenicEnd UserHospitals & ClinicsPharmaceuticalBiopharmaceuticalBiotechnology CompaniesOthersGeographyAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaNorth AmericaCanadaUSEuropeGermanyUKFranceSouth AmericaBrazilMiddle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The vaccines segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The pharmaceutical industry's reliance on cold chain logistics has grown significantly due to the increasing development and export of temperature-sensitive goods, including novel drugs, vaccines, and biopharmaceuticals. Cold chain logistics ensures the proper transportation, storage, labeling, and last-mile delivery of these goods at specific temperatures - ambient, refrigerated, frozen, or cryogenic. With the rise of advanced technologies like telematics, machine learning, b

In 2023, the size of the cold chain market in China reached *** billion yuan. According to the estimate, the market was projected to surpass *** billion yuan in 2024.

Cold Chain Logistics Market Outlook

The global cold chain logistics market size is projected to grow from $247.30 billion in 2023 to approximately $585.1 billion by 2032, boasting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.2%. This substantial growth can be attributed to increasing demand for perishable food items, rising pharmaceutical needs, and significant advancements in cold chain technology, ensuring the preservation and integrity of temperature-sensitive products throughout the supply chain.

One of the key growth factors for the cold chain logistics market is the rising global demand for perishable food products. As urbanization and globalization expand, consumers are increasingly seeking fresh and exotic foods, which necessitates robust cold chain logistics to maintain food quality and safety from production to consumption. This trend is particularly prominent in emerging economies where dietary habits are rapidly evolving, thereby driving demand for efficient cold chain solutions. Moreover, stringent food safety regulations imposed by various governments are compelling food producers and retailers to adopt advanced cold chain logistics systems, further accelerating market growth.

The pharmaceutical industry is another significant driver of the cold chain logistics market. With the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the growing production of temperature-sensitive biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, and clinical trial materials, the need for reliable cold chain solutions is paramount. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted this necessity, as the distribution of vaccines required strict temperature controls. Innovations in packaging, monitoring technologies, and logistics processes are ensuring that pharmaceuticals reach their destinations without compromising efficacy, thus propelling market expansion.

Technological advancements are playing a crucial role in the growth of the cold chain logistics market. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, blockchain technology, and advanced data analytics has revolutionized the way cold chain logistics are managed. IoT-enabled sensors provide real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and other critical parameters, ensuring immediate corrective actions when deviations occur. Blockchain technology enhances transparency and traceability, minimizing risks of fraud and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. These technological innovations enhance operational efficiency, reduce losses, and build greater trust among stakeholders.

Regionally, North America and Europe currently dominate the cold chain logistics market, owing to well-established infrastructure and stringent regulatory frameworks. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a burgeoning middle class demanding higher quality perishable goods. Additionally, the expansion of the pharmaceutical industry in countries like China and India is further fueling the demand for efficient cold chain logistics systems in the region.

Cold Chain Monitoring is an essential aspect of maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive products throughout the supply chain. With the integration of advanced monitoring technologies, companies can ensure real-time tracking of temperature, humidity, and other critical parameters. This not only helps in maintaining the quality and safety of perishable goods but also ensures compliance with stringent regulatory standards. The use of IoT-enabled sensors and data loggers allows for immediate corrective actions in case of deviations, minimizing the risk of spoilage and ensuring that products reach their destinations in optimal condition. As the demand for high-quality perishable goods and pharmaceuticals continues to rise, the importance of robust cold chain monitoring systems cannot be overstated.

Component Analysis

The cold chain logistics market can be segmented by component into storage, transportation, and monitoring components. The storage segment includes refrigerated warehouses and cold storage facilities, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of perishable goods. With the rising demand for fresh produce, frozen foods, and biopharmaceuticals, the need for efficient cold storage solutions is intensifying. Innovations in refrigeration technology, such as the development of energy-efficient and sustainable refrigeration systems, are

The China healthcare cold chain logistics market was valued at USD 3.66 Billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.90%, reaching USD 8.59 Billion by 2034. The expanding biopharmaceutical manufacturing, stringent quality regulations, and increased vaccine distribution are driving market growth, supported by infrastructure modernization and advanced temperature-controlled storage technologies.

Key Trends and Insights

• China contributed approximately 4.4% of the global healthcare cold chain logistics market revenue during the historical period.
• The biopharmaceutical segment dominated the market by product type, accounting for about 49% of total revenue in the historical period.
• By service type, storage is expected to lead the market in the forecast period.

Market Size and Forecast

• Market Size (2024): USD 3.66 Billion
• Projected Market Size (2034): USD 8.59 Billion
• CAGR (2025-2034): 8.90%

China Cold Chain Pharmaceutical Logistics Market is projected to grow around USD 33.8 Billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period.