Tracing tracks: a global analysis of the milestones and driving forces of overseas railway development

Railways have long symbolised industrial progress and global connectivity, reflecting both technological innovation and economic ambition. As the global economy evolves, their strategic significance has shifted from supporting Western-led industrialisation to addressing the infrastructure needs of emerging economies. The transition from British and Western dominance to leadership by Asia-Pacific nations – especially China and Japan – marks a major change in global railway development. This shift aligns with the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as overseas railway projects increasingly reduce infrastructure gaps, foster regional integration, and promote green growth. This paper traces the evolution of overseas railway development through a five-stage framework, analysing key drivers and challenges within each phase. Using the political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental (PESTLE) framework, it evaluates political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental dimensions, offering multidimensional insights into the forces shaping global railway expansion and their implications for sustainable infrastructure investment.