China-Laos Railway Handles $1.4 Billion in Trade in Five Months

The China-Laos Railway moved over 2.48 million tonnes of cargo worth $1.4 billion between January and May 2025, according to new customs data released on Thursday. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Freight volume rose 7.9% year-on-year, while trade value surged by 33.2%. In May alone, 512,000 tonnes of goods valued at $520 million were shipped, setting a monthly record.

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China-Laos Railway drives regional trade growth

Since opening in December 2021, the China-Laos Railway has quickly become a vital corridor for regional freight. By May 22, total shipments exceeded 60 million tonnes.

Cross-border transport accounted for more than 13.9 million tonnes, highlighting strong bilateral trade momentum between China and Southeast Asia.

Cargo diversity has grown from just over 10 categories to more than 3,000, reflecting the railway’s expanding logistics role.

China-Laos Railway supports diversified cargo flows

The line now transports electronics, photovoltaic systems, communication gear, automobiles, agricultural goods, industrial equipment, and consumer products.

This expansion has helped businesses access faster, more cost-efficient delivery routes while reducing customs bottlenecks.

More companies are shifting from road and sea to rail transport, citing time savings and reliability as key factors behind the switch.

Trade via the China-Laos route is expected to grow further, supported by enhanced infrastructure and rising demand for regional integration.

Officials are planning service upgrades and new connections that will deepen supply chain links and boost economic cooperation.

Source: english.news.cn

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