Trans-Caspian Route Sees Fivefold Cargo Increase Over Seven Years

The volume of cargo transported along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) has grown fivefold over the past seven years, from 0.8 million to 4.5 million tons annually. This surge solidifies its position as a critical link in global logistics.

Container traffic has shown particularly strong growth, with approximately 77,000 TEUs moved via the route in 2025. The target is to reach 300,000 TEUs by 2029.

The TITR has evolved into a well-established multimodal corridor connecting China, Kazakhstan, the Caucasus countries, Turkey, and European markets. This growth stems from expanded infrastructure and strengthened strategic partnerships among participating nations and transport operators.

Key drivers include simplified customs procedures, enhanced competitiveness due to reduced transit times (from 28-32 days down to 13-17 days), and rising demand for reliable "single-window" cargo transportation services.

Joint roadmaps by Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia—adopted in Aktau in 2022 and Almaty in 2025—aim to eliminate bottlenecks on the route. Infrastructure modernization is a major focus.

Recent projects include dredging at the Port of Kuryk and plans for similar work at Aktau Port this year. A new multifunctional terminal with a capacity of 5 million tons is under construction at Kuryk in partnership with Abu Dhabi Ports Group.

A container hub has been completed at Aktau Port, and the lifting bridge at Kuryk's Berth No.1 has been upgraded. In Georgia's Poti Port, a Kazakh-owned terminal with a capacity of 120,000 TEUs is now operational.

The European Union is providing a grant for reconstructing Berths No.3 and No.12 at Aktau Port. The funds will be used to purchase cargo-handling equipment, including wind-resistant STS cranes.

To expand the merchant fleet, an order for two container ships has been placed at Baku Shipyard for delivery by 2027, with six more universal dry cargo vessels planned that same year.

Railway infrastructure upgrades span over 2,000 km. In 2025 alone, projects covering 911 km were completed. These included constructing second tracks on the Dostyk-Moyynty section (836 km) and a bypass line around Almaty station (75 km), both integral parts of the TITR.

A draft intergovernmental agreement on TITR development cooperation with Azerbaijan has been prepared to enhance the route's institutional status and is expected to be signed soon.