An international cargo train of China-Laos Railway is pictured at Wangjiaying West Station in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, on Jan. 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

The China-Laos Railway transported 3 million tons of cargo in the first half of 2025, marking an 8.8 percent increase compared to the same period last year, the local Pasaxon newspaper in Vientiane reported on Monday.

Since its opening, the railway has become a key export route for Laos and neighboring countries. To boost exports and improve freight efficiency, it prioritizes Lao goods, especially agricultural products, and provides full support to operators upon request, regardless of shipment size.

Service improvements include increasing train routes and container availability, raising train load capacity from 2,500 to 2,800 tons, and streamlining customs procedures through enhanced coordination with border officials.

In addition, the China-Laos Railway is also collaborating with railway authorities in China, Thailand, and Malaysia to launch a cross-border freight service. This initiative aims to connect ASEAN countries more effectively through Laos, further integrating regional trade routes.

Key exports from Laos to China include fruits, cassava, rubber, and minerals. The variety of products transported has grown dramatically, expanding from just over 10 types to more than 3,000 types.