China Sees Rise in Cross-Regional Passenger Trips in H1

China recorded an impressive total of 33.76 billion cross-regional passenger trips in the first half of 2025, reflecting a 4.2 percent increase compared to the same timeframe last year. This information was reported by the Ministry of Transport on Friday.

Notably, various modes of transport witnessed substantial growth during this period. Rail journeys increased by 6.7 percent, while road travel expanded by 4 percent. Air travel also saw a noteworthy rise, climbing by 6 percent, with international flights leading this recovery, experiencing a remarkable surge of 28.5 percent.

In addition to the upswing in passenger travel, freight traffic remained robust amidst resilient global logistics patterns. In total, commercial freight reached 28.03 billion tonnes, marking a year-on-year increase of 3.9 percent, indicating steady demand and operational efficiency in this sector.

The success of China's transportation sector is further reflected in the continuing rise of port cargo throughput. During the first half of 2025, ports handled a total of 8.9 billion tonnes of cargo, an increase of 4 percent from the previous year, with a notable uptick in foreign trade container movements.

Supporting these positive trends, fixed-asset investment in transport has remained stable at 1.65 trillion yuan, equivalent to approximately 231 billion dollars. This steady investment underscores the ongoing momentum in infrastructure development across the transportation network.

The growth reflected across various transportation sectors not only highlights the recovery post-pandemic but also suggests a broader revitalization of the economy. Improved connectivity is crucial for sustaining economic momentum and enhancing logistical capabilities.

As China continues to develop its transport infrastructure and bolster passenger services, the implications for both domestic and international travel remain significant. Enhanced travel opportunities may stimulate economic growth further, fostering regional ties and cultural exchanges.

In conclusion, the first half of 2025 marks a transformative period for China's transportation landscape. With rising passenger trips and strong freight traffic, the outlook remains optimistic as the country continues to invest in its transport capabilities.