The People’s Republic of China’s (PRC’s) high-speed rail (HSR) system has significantly enhanced interregional connectivity, facilitating the movement of people and goods and driving economic integration. HSR has fostered balanced regional growth and social stability by linking developed and underdeveloped regions.
The PRC’s HSR policy has transitioned from a demand-driven model, responding to existing spatial growth, to a supply-driven approach that actively shapes economic and spatial development. This shift underscores the strategic role of HSR in guiding urbanization and economic expansion.
After 2013, the financing framework of HSR projects shifted from centralized to national-provincial funding, with more debt reliance. This enables rapid network expansion but highlights financial sustainability concerns, especially for routes developed ahead of demand.
Centralized administration, streamlined operations, rigorous maintenance systems, strong R&D, and comprehensive workforce training underpin the PRC’s HSR success.
The PRC’s centralized governance has driven its HSR success. Its principles of infrastructure-spatial planning alignment, stakeholder collaboration, and long-term sustainability offer valuable insights for other economies.