China on the way to OTIF

On April 26, the People's Republic of China submitted an application to join the Intergovernmental Organisation for International Carriage by Rail (OTIF) as an associate member. If no objections are raised by five OTIF Member States within three months of the initial notification, China's application will be automatically accepted by July 26.

According to Article 39 of the Convention concerning International Carriage by Rail, the primary requirement for associate membership is that the state must operate railway infrastructure within its territory.

As an associate member, China will be allowed to participate in OTIF's activities and meetings in an advisory capacity, excluding the administrative committee. Additionally, associate members are required to contribute financially to the organisation. Unlike full members, associate members do not become contracting parties to COTIF, OTIF’s foundational text.

China and OTIF have been collaborating for several years. In early 2016, the Chinese National Railway Administration expressed interest in OTIF’s initiatives and the legal framework provided by COTIF. This led to the signing of a memorandum of understanding on July 12, 2016, marking the beginning of formal cooperation.