In 2023, China achieved significant milestones in enhancing its comprehensive and multi-dimensional transportation network, contributing to improved connectivity and economic growth, according to official data from the Ministry of Transport. Fixed-asset investment (FAI) in the transportation sector reached 3.6 trillion yuan (about $500 billion) in the first 11 months of the year.
Key achievements include the expansion or renovation of over 7,000 kilometers of expressways, the construction of 1,700 kilometers of new high-speed railways, and the addition or improvement of 1,000 kilometers of high-grade waterways. Two new civil transport airports were certified, and the total urban rail transit mileage increased by over 360 kilometers.
One notable project is the Jianghuai Canal in Anhui Province, which became operational in 2023. This canal, part of a large water project diverting water from the Yangtze River to the Huaihe River, spans 355 kilometers, connecting the Huaihe River with the Chaohu Lake and the Yangtze River. The canal significantly reduces transportation distances, exemplified by a cargo ship carrying raw materials for glass manufacturing from Zhoukou City, Henan Province, shortening its travel time from seven to eight days to just four to five days.
Chen Jing from the Ministry of Transport emphasized the positive impact of the Jianghuai Canal, stating that it can save over 6 billion yuan in bulk cargo freight annually, reduce carbon emissions by nearly 1.8 million tonnes, and lower logistics costs for industrial enterprises along the route by 5 to 10 percent.
As of the end of 2022, China’s progress in building a modern, high-quality, and comprehensive national transport network was remarkable, with a completion rate of approximately 79 percent and a combined scale exceeding six million kilometers. The country boasts the world’s largest high-speed railway network, totaling 42,000 km, and the world’s largest expressway network, covering 177,000 km. Additionally, China had 254 civil transport airports by the end of 2022.
China’s continuous investment and advancements in its transportation infrastructure underline its commitment to fostering economic development, regional connectivity, and sustainable growth.
