(KPL) Laos and China have reached a consensus on a draft agreement to implement a “One Door, One Time” inspection system at the Boten-Bohan international railway checkpoint, aiming to streamline cross-border passenger transit and further enhance bilateral connectivity.

The negotiation meeting took place in Vientiane Capital from July 31 to August 2, co-chaired by Mr. Anusin Khatthiyalath, Head of the Office of the National Border Committee under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, and Mr. Zhao Lijian, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs under China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representatives from relevant ministries and sectors from both countries participated.

The initiative builds upon existing agreements, including the 2011 Agreement on Border Checkpoints and Border Checkpoint Management Regulations and the 2021 Agreement on Cross-Border Railway Transportation between the two governments. It seeks to facilitate faster and more efficient inspection processes for passengers traveling via the Laos-China Railway, particularly at the key checkpoint in Boten (Laos) and Bohan (China).

Both sides recognized the railway’s pivotal role in strengthening the Laos-China strategic partnership, enhancing infrastructure connectivity, and promoting trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

This agreement, focused specifically on passenger transport, was finalized after comprehensive consultations. The first round of negotiations was held on June 3–4, 2025, in Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Prefecture, Yunnan Province. During the recent second round in Vientiane, both parties reached full consensus on all clauses and formally signed the draft, preparing it for endorsement by high-level leaders during an upcoming bilateral visit.

Once officially signed, the agreement is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of cross-border services, reduce transit times, and promote economic activity—particularly in northern Laos, which is positioned as a regional transport hub connecting Mekong countries. It will also benefit travelers from Laos, China, and third countries using the international railway corridor.

The agreement will be valid for 10 years, with automatic renewal unless either party provides written notice of cancellation at least six months prior to expiry.

KPL