Laos-China Railway trade jumps 62.7% in early 2026, reaching record level
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KPL - Asean 2024
Cross-border trade along the Laos-China Railway surged 62.7% in the first quarter of 2026, reaching a record 6.81 billion yuan (about $992 million), according to data released April 7, 2026.
Figures from Kunming Customs, reported by Xinhua News Agency, showed strong growth in both exports and imports between January and March.Exports of photovoltaic products rose sharply to 1.19 billion yuan, while imports of fresh and dried fruits doubled to 500 million yuan, highlighting expanding trade between China and Southeast Asia.
Customs officials said the railway is increasingly serving as a two-way trade corridor, with Chinese manufactured goods moving south and agricultural products from the region shipped north to Chinese markets.
Since opening, total trade transported along the railway has exceeded 80 billion yuan, reflecting its growing role in regional logistics and connectivity.
The railway now serves more than 6,000 companies, with trade links extending to 19 countries and regions, including Laos and Thailand. The range of goods has expanded from about 500 categories at launch to more than 3,800.
Officials said customs authorities have introduced measures to streamline procedures and reduce transport times, supporting faster and more efficient cross-border trade.
The railway, a flagship Belt and Road project, opened in December 2021 and connects Kunming in southwest China with Vientiane, playing an increasingly important role in regional economic integration.