Passenger traffic on the China–Laos Railway has increased significantly this year, boosting tourism and cross-border economic links as Laos prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status, the China State Railway Group said in a report on 9 September.
The group said that the railway carried 244,000 cross-border passenger trips during the first eight months of 2026, up more than 50 percent from the same period last year.
During the summer travel period from 1 July to 1 September, the Mohan railway port processed more than 57,000 entry and exit travellers from 72 countries and regions. Daily passenger clearances peaked at more than 1,100 at the Mohan port.
The railway directly connects Vientiane with Kunming and Xishuangbanna in China, providing faster access to more than 560 cultural and tourism attractions along the route. Rising passenger numbers have supported businesses including tourist attractions, hotels and restaurants.
Key Connection
Since its opening in late 2021, the railway has become a key part of Laos’ efforts to improve regional connectivity and develop its role as a transport and logistics hub.
Lao officials highlighted the railway’s role in the country’s economic development at the 11th Hong Kong Belt and Road Summit on 9 September. They presented investment opportunities in tourism, green innovation, modern industry, digital connectivity, clean energy, human-resource development and agriculture.
These priorities align with Laos’ 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2026–2030, which focuses on improving connectivity, expanding industry, developing human resources and promoting sustainable growth.
Lao officials also called on Belt and Road partner countries and businesses to invest in these sectors as Laos prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status at the end of this year.
