BEIJING, December 2025 — China has inaugurated a new high-speed rail line connecting Nanning to the Vietnam border, a significant development aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration within the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area. This expansion of China's high-speed rail network is set to facilitate faster movement of passengers and goods, underscoring its strategic infrastructure development in Southeast Asia.

The newly operational line is designed to reach a maximum speed of 250 kilometers per hour. In its initial phase, it will operate four pairs of high-speed trains daily, drastically reducing the fastest journey time between Nanning and Pingxiang by 178 minutes compared to existing regular-speed services. The service will also feature a flexible, market-based pricing system to offer passengers more options.

This new corridor marks the first time high-speed rail services are available in Pingxiang, Ningming, and Longzhou. The improved regional mobility is anticipated to significantly support high-quality development in these border areas and bolster overall connectivity across the region.

By linking with the national high-speed rail network through the Nanning hub, this project plays a crucial role in strengthening economic ties and streamlining logistics. It represents a key step in fostering greater regional cooperation and economic prosperity within Southeast Asia.

Source: Asia News Network