China is set to boost global connectivity by significantly upgrading its infrastructure and embracing cutting-edge technological advancements. With major investments in modern transportation networks and the integration of technologies like artificial intelligence, big data, and blockchain, China is enhancing its ability to facilitate smoother international trade and strengthen economic ties across borders. These developments are not only enhancing China’s global position but also contributing to more efficient, interconnected global supply chains, further solidifying its role in the global economy.
Since its inception, the CERE has grown into one of the flagship initiatives of the BRI, showcasing the potential of infrastructure-led international cooperation. The railway links numerous cities across both Asia and Europe, facilitating smoother trade and reinforcing China’s role as a key logistics hub in the global supply chain. The expansion of the CERE has been essential to China’s foreign trade strategy, enabling more efficient cross-border exchanges and supporting deeper international economic cooperation.
The Chinese government has further solidified its commitment to advancing the CERE’s capabilities as part of its long-term strategy outlined in the 15th Five-Year Plan. The Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, which concluded in October 2025, underscored the importance of upgrading both the infrastructure and operational systems of the China-Europe Railway Express. These updates are expected to play a significant role in the continued success of the BRI and China’s broader economic objectives over the next several years.
Over the past decade, the CERE has made significant strides in both operational capacity and international trade facilitation. From 2016 to 2024, the annual number of trips soared from 1,702 to 19,000, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 35%. Similarly, the total cargo value moved through the railway has increased from $8 billion in 2016 to $66.4 billion in 2024. At the same time, the railway’s operational efficiency has greatly improved, with the time required to complete 10,000 trips being reduced from 90 months to under seven. This exponential growth highlights the essential role the CERE plays in driving global trade, especially for high-value exports such as automobiles, machinery, and electronics.
By mid-2025, the CERE’s cumulative number of trips surpassed 110,000, and its total cargo value exceeded $450 billion. The railway now connects 128 cities in China, linking them to 229 cities in 26 European countries and over 100 cities in 11 Asian nations, effectively covering the entire Eurasian continent. This vast network underscores the importance of the CERE in facilitating cross-border trade and fostering stronger economic ties between Asia and Europe.
Looking ahead, the China-Europe Railway Express is poised for continued growth, with a focus on further improving the quality of services and operational efficiency. As part of the 15th Five-Year Plan, China plans to continue enhancing the railway’s infrastructure, optimizing cargo operations, expanding port capacities, and streamlining customs procedures. These efforts will help create a more interconnected global transportation network, one that can better serve the needs of BRI partner countries and facilitate the smooth flow of goods across borders.
A key aspect of the future development of the CERE will be the integration of advanced digital technologies. China aims to leverage cutting-edge innovations such as artificial intelligence, big data, and blockchain to improve logistics management, enhance cargo monitoring, and optimize customs clearance procedures. The goal is to build a fully integrated, digitalized logistics service system that will increase the railway’s operational efficiency while offering new levels of service to customers.
In addition to technological advancements, the CERE will deepen its collaboration with various industries along its route. By aligning the railway’s operations with the industrial needs of partner countries, the CERE will support the growth of key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and modern services. This “corridor + industry + park” approach will create new opportunities for industrial development and foster economic growth in the regions served by the railway.
The China-Europe Railway Express is a powerful example of China’s commitment to building an open and interconnected global economy. As a cornerstone of the Belt and Road Initiative, the railway facilitates trade, strengthens international cooperation, and supports economic growth across multiple continents. Amid an era of economic uncertainty, the CERE’s focus on connectivity, collaboration, and mutual benefit offers a model for how nations can work together to promote prosperity and stability.
China is set to enhance global connectivity by upgrading its infrastructure and leveraging technologies like AI, big data, and blockchain. These advancements will streamline international trade and strengthen economic ties across borders, boosting global supply chains.
As the CERE continues to evolve, it will remain a vital component of the global trade infrastructure. China’s efforts to expand its network, enhance operational efficiency, and embrace digital transformation will ensure that the railway remains a critical link between Asia and Europe, propelling forward China’s vision for a more interconnected and open world economy. By further strengthening the CERE’s capabilities, China aims to inject new momentum into global trade, ensuring that the railway will continue to play a central role in shaping the future of international logistics and economic cooperation.
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