Thailand's new rail links carry hope for expanded Chinese trade

Laos-China railway become a key gateway for Thai and Malaysian exports

This SRT train in Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station prepares to depart for Vientiane on the newly opened line on July 19. (Photo by Shinya Sawai)

KOSUKE INOUE and FUMIKA SATO, Nikkei staff writers

July 23, 2024 02:26 JST

VIENTIANE/SINGAPORE -- Thailand's national railway opened a new passenger service to Laos this month, the latest addition to an expanding Southeast Asian rail network aimed at increasing cross-border traffic of people and goods with China.