China-Vietnam border trade benefits locals

NANNING — At 8:30 am on Monday, long lines began to form in front of customs checkpoints in Dongxing, a small, charming border city nestled in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

Ngo Thi Thuy, a 36-year-old from the Vietnamese city of Mong Cai, was waiting for customs clearance to enter Dongxing, which is separated from her hometown by the shallow, winding Beilun River.

This daily routine has been second nature for Thuy over the past eight years. Her commute typically takes about 30 minutes, and is now a very familiar journey that starts with a 15-minute motorcycle ride to the border, followed by a short trip across the 111-meter footbridge connecting the countries, before a quick walk to Thuy's stall in the heart of bustling Dongxing, where she makes her living.