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Global logistics is facing increasing difficulties, from geopolitical tensions to supply chain disruptions. These challenges are pushing the world to explore alternative trade routes that are reliable, efficient, and sustainable. One such option gaining momentum is the Middle Corridor, officially known as the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR). This route connects China to Europe through Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, and the South Caucasus. Its strategic location and low geopolitical risks make it a promising alternative to traditional shipping routes.
A Growing Trade Route
The Middle Corridor has seen impressive growth in recent years. Between January and October this year, cargo transport along the route increased by 68%, reaching 3.8 million tons. Container shipping on the China-Europe-China route also surged, with 20,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) moved—a twenty-fold rise compared to previous years.
To boost this momentum, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and China recently announced a joint venture to build a 40-hectare intermodal cargo terminal in Baku. This terminal aims to enhance the corridor’s efficiency by reducing delivery times and cutting costs. Scheduled for completion by 2025, the project highlights the commitment of regional players to improving trade infrastructure.
Kazakhstan Leads Infrastructure Development
Kazakhstan plays a critical role in the success of the Middle Corridor. The country has made significant investments to improve its logistics infrastructure. For instance, Kazakhstan plans to increase the number of container trains on the route to 600 annually.
A major project is the construction of double tracks on the Dostyk-Mointy railway section. Covering 836 km, this upgrade will boost capacity fivefold and increase transport speeds from 800 km to 1,500 km per day. This development, set to finish by 2025, will reduce delays and make the route more competitive globally.
To ease congestion in southeastern Kazakhstan, a bypass railway line is being constructed near Almaty. This will cut delivery times by 24 hours and reduce the strain on the city’s transport hub by 40%. These measures are geared toward creating a seamless and efficient trade route.
Expanding Port Capacity
Kazakhstan is also improving its ports along the Caspian Sea. At **Aktau**, plans are underway to develop a 300,000 TEU container hub in partnership with China’s Lianyungang Port Group. This facility will enhance international trade links and increase container capacity.
Meanwhile, the port of Kuryk is building the multifunctional Sarja terminal. This terminal will handle a variety of cargo, including grain and oil, further diversifying the corridor’s logistics capabilities. These upgrades not only expand capacity but also improve the corridor’s sustainability by reducing energy consumption and emissions.
Benefits for Global Trade
The Middle Corridor offers significant advantages for global supply chains. Goods transported along this route typically take 10 to 15 days to travel from China to Europe. This is much faster than the 35 to 45 days required by maritime shipping routes.
For Europe, the corridor provides faster access to the growing markets of Central Asia and the Caucasus. It also opens quicker connections to the Middle East and North Africa through ports in Georgia and Türkiye. The reliance on rail transport makes the route more environmentally friendly, helping companies meet sustainability targets.
Addressing Challenges
Despite its rapid growth, the Middle Corridor faces challenges. Limited capacity can cause delays and bottlenecks. However, ongoing projects, such as the railway upgrades at Dostyk-Mointy and Almaty, are addressing these issues. The expansion of Aktau and Kuryk ports will further increase the corridor’s cargo handling capacity.
Efforts are also underway to simplify border-crossing procedures and customs regulations. A ‘Single Window’ system, established by Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, aims to streamline administrative processes for cargo transit. Additionally, a 2022-2027 roadmap signed by Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye outlines investments in transport infrastructure to increase cargo volumes to 10 million tons annually by 2027.
A Sustainable and Stable Alternative
The Middle Corridor is emerging as a reliable trade route in a world grappling with supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty. By offering faster transit times, lower emissions, and strategic investments, the route is becoming an attractive choice for global shippers.
Its growing importance signals a shift in international trade dynamics. As investments continue and challenges are addressed, the Middle Corridor is poised to play a central role in stabilizing global logistics and enhancing connectivity between East and West.