The Government of Laos will undertake a feasibility study for a new railway between Vientiane and Pakse, while also moving ahead with plans to construct a cross-border rail link connecting Laos and Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.
Construction of the Laos–Vietnam railway is expected to begin in early 2026. The line will run from Khammuan province to the Vietnamese border, strengthening regional connectivity and supporting trade and logistics.
Rail expansion forms part of the government’s broader strategy to address economic and financial challenges and promote socio-economic development. Over the next five years, Laos also plans to link the existing Laos–China Railway with the Lao–Thai railway, further integrating the country into regional transport networks.
Since entering service in December 2021, the Laos–China Railway has carried more than 12 million passengers domestically and over 16 million tonnes of freight. The Vientiane–Kunming corridor has handled more than 62 million passengers and 72 million tonnes of cargo, contributing to lower transport costs, faster travel, and growth in trade and tourism.