The China-Laos Railway has launched cross-border passenger services, connecting Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, and the Lao capital of Vientiane. The railway project, which began operating in December 2021, spans over 1,000 km and passes through mountains and valleys, featuring eight stations along the route. The project aims to boost regional connectivity and facilitate cross-border travel, promoting economic and trade exchanges between China and Laos. The railway has already helped to promote Laos’ tourism industry, and the Lao tourism authorities hope to draw 368,000 Chinese visitors in 2023, up 21% from 2022.