China’s High-Speed Rail Expansion Gains Momentum

China’s ambitious high-speed rail program is set to be highlighted at the upcoming UIC World Congress on High-Speed Rail in Beijing. The country continues to expand its railway network, both domestically and internationally.

High-Speed Rail Congress Coming to Beijing

The International Union of Railways (UIC) initiated the World Congress on High-Speed Rail in 1992. Beijing will host the 12th congress from July 8 to 11, 2025, showcasing China’s advancements and contributions to the global high-speed rail sector.

Ambitious Expansion Plans

China aims to significantly increase its high-speed rail network, targeting approximately 60,000 km of operating tracks by 2030, a substantial increase from the 48,000 km recorded at the close of 2024. The nation’s total railway length is projected to reach 180,000 km by 2030, a significant leap from the 162,000 km at the end of 2024. When the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949, the total railway length was only 21,800 km.

Driving Economic and Social Development

The network’s expansion has played a crucial role in China’s economic and social progress. By reducing travel times and boosting industrial development along railway routes, the growing high-speed rail network stimulates economic growth.

Technological Advancements

Achievements in the high-speed rail sector include the Fuxing series high-speed trains, sophisticated train-control systems, and innovative surveying technologies. These are expected to solidify China’s position as a global leader in railway technology.

CR450 Bullet Train Prototype

Prototypes of the CR450 bullet train were unveiled in Beijing at the end of 2024. Boasting a test speed of up to 450 kilometers per hour and an operational speed of 400 kilometers per hour, the CR450 showcases China’s cutting-edge advancements and contributions to the global rail industry.

The CR450 is considerably faster than the CR400 Fuxing high-speed trains, which currently operate at speeds of 350 km/h. In fact, the new Fuxing trains have shortened the trip between Shanghai and Beijing to just over two hours (Shine 2024).

A Global “Calling Card”

China’s high-speed trains, recognized as a successful example of independent innovation, are now considered a Chinese “calling card” and are welcomed around the world.

Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway

Indonesia’s Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) has transported over 10 million passengers as of June this year, since operations began on Oct. 17, 2023.

Indonesian drivers have successfully operated the trains serving the HSR at a speed of 350 km/h. This is the first overseas high-speed railway project fully utilizing Chinese railway systems, technology and industrial components.