A freight train service linking Shanghai, Kunming and Vientiane, the capital of Laos, has commenced operation following its launch on Sunday. A ceremony was held at southwest China's Kunming to mark the inauguration. A freight train loaded with goods from Laos departs on its inaugural journey, which is expected to reach Shanghai within 82 hours.

Meanwhile, another freight train carrying goods, including electrical appliances, freezers and blankets, set off from Shanghai. The train is expected to travel along the Shanghai-Kunming Railway and China-Laos Railway before arriving in Vientiane.

The new service covers a total distance of 3,756 kilometers, cutting the transport time for goods in half from 10 days to approximately five.