As the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) prepares for its 2025 Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, infrastructure projects like the Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL) underscore the region's commitment to connectivity. The Hong Kong section of this high-speed rail network recently marked its seventh anniversary, having transformed cross-boundary mobility since its 2016 launch.
Operated by MRT Corporation, the XRL now runs over 100 daily trains connecting Hong Kong to 96 stations across the Chinese mainland. August 2023 saw a record-breaking 3.2 million passenger trips – a testament to its role as a vital artery for business, tourism, and cultural exchange. Flexible ticketing options and tourism-focused schedules have further boosted ridership, with analysts noting increased cross-strait economic collaboration.
This development comes as APEC members emphasize sustainable growth through regional integration. The rail link not only reduces travel time between key cities but also aligns with broader initiatives to strengthen supply chain resilience in the Asia-Pacific. For Hong Kong residents and mainland professionals alike, the XRL has become synonymous with efficient urban-rural connectivity.
With the 2025 APEC meeting expected to highlight transportation innovation, the XRL's success offers a model for other economies seeking to balance economic development with environmental considerations through rail modernization.
