Remarkable progress was made in China's railway sector in 2024, with the improvement of the nation's transportation infrastructure contributing to economic growth and improving lives.

As of the end of last year, China's railway network had stretched to 162,000 kilometers, with 48,000 km dedicated to high-speed rail, further pressing its advantage as the global leader in high-speed rail. The network also expanded into more remote and mountainous areas, where constructing railways was once considered impossible.

Freight train services linking China and Europe saw steady growth in 2024. Launched in 2011, the total number of China-Europe freight train services surpassed 100,000 last year.

One of the highlights of the year was the debut of the CR450 prototypes, the next generation of high-speed trains that are faster, greener and more comfortable than those in current operation. Once they enter commercial operation, speeds will be increased to 400 km/h from the current 350km/h. This development underscores China's commitment to advancing transportation technology and improving efficiency.

China's railway freight and passenger volumes both reached record highs last year, playing a key role in supporting socioeconomic development. According to China State Railway Group, the national railway operator, in 2024, China's national railway handled a record 4.08 billion passenger trips, with daily traffic reaching a high of nearly 21.45 million. The network also moved 3.99 billion metric tons of cargo, marking the eighth consecutive year of growth.