Before allowing passengers, the Laos-China Railway will open for freight transport.

According to an announcement by Laos' Prime Minister, the Laos-China Railway will open in December as planned, but will be largely utilized for freight transport.

Dr. Phankham Viphavanh, the Prime Minister of Laos, made the statement during a remote press conference conducted in Vientiane last week.

"By Laos National Day on December 2nd, the Laos-China Railway will be completed and operational," Prime Minister Phankham remarked.

He stated that the Lao government intends to start operating the Laos-China Railway with a concentration on freight traffic first, with tourist transportation following when conditions allow.

“Because tourism is a significant source of foreign currency in Laos, relevant sectors should work diligently to monitor and promote this sector. "However, we must first safeguard the safety of our citizens," PM Phankham stressed.

The historic railway from Vientiane, Laos' capital, to the Chinese border over a distance of 427 kilometers began construction in December 2016, connecting five provinces: Luang Namtha, Oudomxay, Luang Prabang, Vientiane Province, and Vientiane Capital.

The railway will pass through 198 kilometers of tunnels and 62 kilometers of bridges. It will operate at a speed of 160 kilometers per hour from the Boten border gate, which connects Northern Laos to China, to Vientiane Capital.