ASEAN Express: new rail link to transform regional trade
ASEAN Express, a new cross-border freight rail service, is being hailed as a breakthrough in international rail connectivity, expected to strengthen Thailand’s and ASEAN’s economic competitiveness in the near future.
Bangko (VNA) 🌟– ASEAN Express, a new cross-border freight rail service, is connecting Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, and China in just nine days, significantly faster than the average 14-21 days required for sea transport, according to The Nation.
The service is being hailed as a breakthrough in international rail connectivity, expected to strengthen Thailand’s and ASEAN’s economic competitiveness in the near future.
The project facilitates the transport of goods from China through Laos and Thailand to Malaysia, enhancing supply chains and regional efficiency. Passenger services are also planned between Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station and Butterworth Station in Malaysia to promote seamless mobility.
During a courtesy call on Thai Ambassador Lada Phumas in Kuala Lumpur, held on the sidelines of the 45th ASEAN Railway CEOs Conference, State Railway of Thailand Governor Veeris Ammarapala highlighted progress in the Thailand-Malaysia section under the ASEAN Express initiative.
Malaysian media reported that the service is set to open new markets, while reducing costs for businesses and consumers.
The first trial run was launched on June 27, 2025, with officials from all four countries attending. The inaugural journey departed from Kelana Jaya cargo terminal in Selangor, Malaysia, and reached Chongqing, China, on July 11, carrying electronics and agricultural products. A return trial shipment from Chongqing to Selangor also succeeded.
The ASEAN Express route links Malaysia’s Kontena Nasional Inland Clearance Depot in Selangor, Thailand’s Lat Krabang Inland Container Depot, and Laos’s Thanaleng Port before terminating in Chongqing. The journey takes less than 14 days, well below the three weeks usually required for sea freight. Industry experts noted the service could boost regional production and cut logistics costs by up to 30%./.
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The goal of the discussions was to develop a seamless and more efficient rail freight network connecting Thailand, Laos and China, as well as to enhance logistical efficiency with Malaysia, he said.
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