BEIJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) — China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) will focus on four key areas to promote the high-quality development of the China-Europe Railway Express, aiming for improved efficiency, stronger benefits, and enhanced operational security.
According to data released by the NDRC, as of October 2025, the China-Europe Railway Express had operated a cumulative total of 118,600 train services, transporting 11.7 million TEUs of cargo. The network now connects 232 cities across 26 European countries, covering major logistics routes throughout Eurasia.
Zhou Haibing, deputy director of the NDRC, said at the Second China-Europe Railway Express International Cooperation Forum that China will continue working with partner countries along the routes to deepen practical cooperation and enhance regional connectivity.
China will further expand diversified and efficient logistics corridors by innovating customs supervision models, optimizing inspection procedures, and improving end-to-end transportation efficiency. Efforts will also be made to upgrade ports and transport infrastructure, enhance the capacity of key hubs such as Aktau Port and Baku Port, and develop new railway routes.
The NDRC will encourage wider application of advanced technologies, including big data and artificial intelligence, to improve digital customs systems and China-Europe Railway Express information platforms. More themed cultural trains and innovative “Railway Express Plus” models will also be promoted to expand the service value of the network.
China will continue strengthening cooperation with countries along the China-Europe Railway Express routes through security dialogue and coordination mechanisms. Joint efforts will focus on improving cargo security, transportation safety, and full-chain risk management capabilities.
The China-Europe Railway Express will further integrate with trade, manufacturing, logistics, and financial services to improve resource allocation efficiency and enhance the competitiveness of enterprises. These efforts aim to support higher-quality China-Europe economic cooperation and achieve mutual benefits.
The Second China-Europe Railway Express International Cooperation Forum was held on November 18 in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, under the theme “Connecting Asia and Europe, Sharing a Common Future.” More than 450 representatives from 45 countries and regions attended the event.