The China-Laos Railway, a 1,035-km marvel connecting Kunming in Yunnan Province of the Chinese mainland to Vientiane in Laos, is celebrating a significant milestone. In just two years, the international passenger service has transported 487,000 travelers from 112 countries and regions, marking a new era of connectivity.
Since its official launch of the international passenger service on April 13, 2023, enhancements have been in full swing. To meet growing demand, railway authorities increased service frequency on popular routes such as between Xishuangbanna and Luang Prabang from four to six days per week (excluding Wednesdays), while passenger seat capacity on each train grew from 250 to 390. During peak periods, daily inbound and outbound passenger flows have surged from 300 to as many as 1,300.
Efficiency is at the heart of the upgrade. The travel time between Kunming South station and Vientiane station has been trimmed by an hour to approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, while streamlined customs clearance procedures have reduced wait times from 90 minutes to as little as 50 minutes. At the Mohan border checkpoint, multilingual police officers assist travelers with inquiries on local laws, customs, tourism tips, and cuisine, ensuring a smooth cross-border experience.
This flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative is more than just a transportation upgrade—it is a catalyst for regional economic development and cultural exchange. The improved connectivity not only supports trade but also deepens people-to-people ties, resonating with young global citizens, business innovators, thought leaders, and digital nomads alike.
As the China-Laos Railway continues to evolve, it sets a dynamic example of how advanced infrastructure can drive international tourism, boost commerce, and foster sustainable cultural interactions in an increasingly interconnected world.
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China-Laos Railway carries 487,000 cross-border passengers in 2 years
cgtn.com
