New ‘Lane Xang' train to meet passenger demand
VIENTIANE: The fifth 'Lane Xang' electric multiple unit train arrived in Laos on June 13 to cater to the growing demand for passenger services on the Laos-China Railway.
As of May 30, 2025, the railway had transported 1,660,000 passengers, a nine per cent increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Laos-China Railway Co Ltd.
The fifth 'Lane Xang' train arrives in Laos on June 13 to support rising passenger numbers on the Laos-China Railway.
The new train is part of the CR200J series and will increase the railway's capacity, especially during major festivals and the tourist season.
The Laos-China Railway Company said the additional train will boost operating efficiency and service quality. It is expected to ease the demand for tickets and allow passengers to plan trips further in advance. Tickets can currently be booked only four days ahead of the date of travel.
The fifth Lane Xang train also marks another step forward in Laos's goal to modernise its transport infrastructure and strengthen cross-border links with neighbouring countries.
Designed to suit the Lao climate and terrain, the train includes business class, first class and second class seating, as well as facilities for passengers with disabilities. It can carry up to 632 passengers.
The Minister of Public Works and Transport, Mr Ngampasong Muangmany, said the new train will improve travel options and support Laos's development as a regional hub for transport and trade.
The train's red, blue and white exterior reflects the colours of the Lao national flag, in line with the design of earlier Lane Xang trains.
The Laos-China Railway has become a key route for international transport, enhancing connectivity within Laos and the region while supporting tourism, trade and investment.
The railway began operations in December 2021. By June 2025, the line had carried a total of 9.65 million passengers,
Over more than two years of cross-border operations, the railway has carried 530,000 cross-border travellers, making travel between Laos, China and other nations more accessible.
The freight service has transported more than 13.91 million tonnes of goods, linking Laos with China and other countries in the region. - Vientiane Times/ANN
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