As China advances its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), the China-Europe Railway Express (CERE) has taken center stage in discussions about transcontinental connectivity. A high-level forum convened this week in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, brought together policymakers, logistics experts, and international partners to strategize on expanding this critical trade corridor.
Strengthening the Iron Silk Road
The Second China-Europe Railway Express Cooperation Forum, held on November 18, 2025, focused on operational efficiency and innovation. With over 85,000 freight trips completed since its 2011 launch, the CERE has become a lifeline for Eurasian trade, transporting $340 billion worth of goods to date. Recent upgrades to border-crossing protocols and digital tracking systems aim to reduce transit times by 15% this year.
Aligning with National Priorities
The Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, concluded in October 2025, identified railway diplomacy as crucial for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) advancement. Researcher Bao Shujun noted: "The 15th Five-Year Plan will transform the CERE from a transport route into an economic corridor, integrating industrial parks and digital infrastructure across 25 countries."
Future Development Blueprint
Key 2026–2030 targets include:
Establishing 10 new multimodal hubs along the route
Increasing annual cargo volume to 20 million tonnes
Implementing AI-powered customs clearance systems
This development comes as China-EU trade reaches $850 billion in 2025, with rail accounting for 9% of total cargo movement – triple 2020's share.
