(Yicai) June 5 -- China’s e-commerce logistics index, which is a gauge of logistics operations in the e-retail industry, climbed for the third straight month in May to reach the highest point since 2016, as the country’s online shopping sector goes from strength to strength, according to the latest data.

The E-Commerce Logistics Index advanced 0.7 point last month from the previous month to 113.9 points, the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing said today.

Some sub-indices, namely the total business volume sub-index, the rural business volume sub-index, the logistics timeliness sub-index, the fulfillment rate sub-index, and the satisfaction rate sub-index, advanced.

The total business volume sub-index and the rural business volume sub-index grew the fastest jumped almost 30 percent from the same period last year, climbing 2.1 points and 1.8 points respectively to reach 129.8 points and 129.7 points.

Major e-retailers are rolling out promotions in preparation for the big mid-year online shopping galas, spurring sales. Demand for travel-related products, such as outdoor sports equipment, travel accessories and takeaway meals, has grown rapidly.

The total business volume sub-index rose across the country, with the eastern region logging the largest increase, while the central region topped the national average.

Editor: Kim Taylor