China has decided to open up the con- struction and operation of its railways to private investors and will build more lines in the economically backward western regions, moves that will both boost the railway sector and unleash the vitality of the overall economy.

A State Council executive meeting on Wednesday said that multiple fundraising sources would be sought to finance more railway construction, including a greater role for private capital and a larger focus on the western regions.

The move provides a boost to the western provinces as the country accelerates its economic restructuring drive among different regions to seek a balanced and all-round development.