Hungary accelerates rail strategy: Chinese trains arrive before the return of the Budapest – Belgrade line
Ahead of the relaunch of one of the most important regional rail links, Hungary announces a large supply of new trains from China. Minister of Transport and Construction János Lázár confirmed that a purchase is planned around 100 sets., with already started discussions with Chinese manufacturers.
This decision coincides with the completion railway modernisation Budapest – Belgrade. Freight traffic on the Hungarian section should start at the end of February, while Passenger traffic planned for mid-March 2026.
Srbija Voz first on the line
On the international line, it will initially operate CRRC Changchun EMU trains owned by a Serbian operator Serbian Railways. To ensure infrastructure compatibility, MÁV The platform adaptation at the station has begun Budapest Keleti, with an investment of around 300 million forints.
The Chinese carriages are still undergoing final administrative and security procedures, but they are testing already underway.
Faster and more frequent connections between the two cities
The journey between Budapest and the Serbian border will take an hour and a half, at the start it is provided:
- six pairs of trains a day
- even rhythm of driving, every two hours
- Combination of Serbian and Hungarian operators
Alongside international routes, strengthening is also planned regional and suburban transport in the south of Hungary.
The modernised Budapest–Belgrade line is increasingly positioning itself as the region's key transport corridor, the planned purchase of Chinese trains further highlights Hungary's long-term ambition to strengthen rail as the backbone of passenger and freight transport.
