With projects including the Jakarta–Bandung and Hungary–Serbia railways, and innovations ranging from hydrogen-powered trains to supply-chain collaboration, CRRC Corporation Limited (CRRC) is advancing a dual strategy of technological innovation and sustainable development, delivering solutions that combine China’s “hard technology” with “soft power.”
In a recent interview with Xinhua News Agency, CRRC Party Secretary and Chairman Sun Yongcai said the company is guided by its “33416” ESG strategic model, embedding ESG concepts deeply into corporate development and continuously enhancing China’s high-end equipment as a “national business card.”
The “33416 Model”: A Framework for Global Practice
Launched as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) entered a stage of high-quality development, the “33416” model links national standards with localized practices. It sets out:
Innovation, Green Growth, and Global Reach
CRRC is upgrading China’s transport sector through technology and sustainability: the “Fuxing” bullet trains have become a new-era “national business card,” while the CR450 prototype set a new benchmark in sustainable rail. New-energy and hydrogen-powered trains provide CRRC’s answer to low-carbon transformation. With an “asset-light, benefit-focused, sustainable” global strategy, CRRC has expanded the BRI footprint through projects including the China–Laos high-speed railway, Jakarta–Bandung HSR, Brazil’s São Paulo intercity line, and the Hungary–Serbia railway. The company is now focused on developing rail products that are faster, smarter, greener, and safer, reinforcing its leadership in global rail transit.
From Equipment Supplier to Standard Setter under the BRI
“Just recently, the China–Laos Railway international passenger train celebrated its two-year anniversary. Operated by CRRC’s ‘Fuxing’ and ‘Lancang’ trains, the route has become a golden link between China’s Kunming and Laos’ Vientiane, injecting strong momentum into high-quality BRI cooperation,” said Sun.
Through international trade and overseas investment, CRRC’s operations span 52 BRI partner countries, driving local industry development. Flagship projects like the China–Europe Railway Express, Jakarta–Bandung HSR, China–Laos Railway, and Kenya’s Mombasa–Nairobi Railway have become vital links for connectivity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
Adhering to its mission of “Connecting the World, Benefiting Humanity,” CRRC has adopted a “Five-Local” model—local manufacturing, sourcing, employment, maintenance, and management—strengthening sustainable supply chains and achieving mutual benefits with host countries.
Beyond mobility, CRRC is also shaping itself as a cultural translator, talent incubator, industrial driver, and community neighbor. Initiatives such as the “Starry Sky Program,” “Swan Program,” and “Green Rider” exchange centers contribute to rural revitalization, community welfare, and cultural exchange.
Its “all-weather” service system further enhances quality of life: standardized after-sales stations in Laos and Kunming ensure safe operations of the China–Laos Railway; trilingual facilities serve diverse passengers; and special on-board support during local holidays like the Lao New Year or Malaysia’s Thaipusam festival reflects a human-centered approach.
Leading Supply-Chain Collaboration and ESG Globalization
CRRC is also leading sustainable supply-chain collaboration. “For two consecutive years, we’ve hosted the ‘Joint Chain Action Conference,’ attracting more enterprises to build an integrated ecosystem of industry, academia, research, and application,” Sun noted.
Through initiatives such as the CR450 EMU, maglev systems, and Chinese-standard metro trains, CRRC has established a chain-driven innovation mechanism, fostered digital upgrades, and promoted dual pathways in green and digital transformation.
“China’s high-speed rail network has reached 48,000 km—longer than all other countries combined—and leads the world in operational speed,” Sun emphasized. “Our international projects create large numbers of jobs, significantly reduce energy intensity, and generate both economic and environmental benefits.”
By embedding ESG in overseas projects and aligning with international partners, CRRC is evolving from a high-end equipment supplier into a sustainable development service provider. This transformation, grounded in both respect for international rules and confidence in Chinese innovation, is opening a new chapter for China’s rail “national business card.”
