On 1 April 2026, the International Transport and Logistics Forum opened in Saint Petersburg, hosted at the "Expoforum" Convention and Exhibition Centre from 1 to 3 April. A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by the Deputy Minister of Railway Transport, Silapberdi Nurberdiyev, is participating in the event. The forum has brought together representatives from international … [Read more...]
Development of Transport and Logistics Corridors: Visit of the Turkmen Delegation to the Ports of Georgia
On 31 March 2026, within the framework of an official visit, a meeting was held between the Turkmen delegation led by Mr. N.Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, and the management of the Port of Poti. The meeting was also attended by Ms. T.Ioseliani, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, as well as representatives … [Read more...]
Energy Transit and Transport Corridors: Key Topics of Negotiations Between Turkmenistan’s DPM and Georgia’s Minister of Economy
On 30 March 2026, a meeting was held in Tbilisi between the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan for Trade, Nokerguly Atagulyev, and the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Mariam Kvrivishvili. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of bilateral economic relations, with a particular … [Read more...]
Belarus and Turkmenistan Strengthen Transport Cooperation: Outcomes of the Meeting in Minsk
On 27 March 2026, the meeting of the Belarusian-Turkmen Joint Committee on International Road Transport concluded in Minsk. During the negotiations, the parties reached several agreements aimed at simplifying logistics and developing freight transport between the two nations. One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the coordination of exchange quotas for permit forms for … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan: Over 75% of Cargo Clears Customs via Pre-Arrival Declaration
During the second session of the Turkmenistan–European Union Business Forum, focused on connectivity, Ata Rahmanov, Chief of the Automation Department of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, shared key results of the department's digital transformation. The primary focus was placed on the transition to a "Smart Customs" model and the implementation of the "Single Window" … [Read more...]
EU Sees “More Potential” for Turkmenistan as Central Player in Trans-Caspian Corridor
During the second session of the Turkmenistan-European Union Business Forum, focused on "Future Horizons for Connectivity," Charlotte Adriaen, Head of Department for Central Asia and Afghanistan at the European Commission (DG INTPA), outlined the strategic evolution of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC). Addressing an audience of international investors and regional … [Read more...]
Afghanistan Expands Exports via Lapis Lazuli Corridor through Turkmenistan
Afghanistan is stepping up the export of its products to international markets via the Lapis Lazuli Corridor, which connects Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Türkiye. The Afghan Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation announced the dispatch of eight export shipments through the Torghundi dry port (on the Turkmen-Afghan border) via the Lapis Lazuli … [Read more...]
North-South Corridor via Turkmenistan Remains Operational Despite Middle East Tensions
The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is facing significant challenges due to the conflict in the Middle East; however, the eastern route passing through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan remains functional and demonstrates resilience despite regional difficulties. This was highlighted in statements made by Russian Transport Minister Andrei Nikitin during an … [Read more...]
China’s Canal of the Century: How the Pinglu Waterway Could Reshape a Region
nCa Report A 134-kilometre waterway threading through southern China is quietly rewriting the economic geography of an entire continent. From Landlocked to Sea-Linked There is a particular kind of frustration that comes with being landlocked. Goods cost more to move. Markets feel further away. Opportunity seems to pool at the coast and struggle to reach inland. For the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and the European Investment Bank Discuss Financing for Railway Modernization
On 24 February 2026, the Minister of Railway Transport of Turkmenistan, Mammet Akmammedov, held a meeting with Edvardas Bumšteinas, Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Division for Asia, Central Asia, and the Pacific. According to the ministry, the main topic of the meeting was cooperation in modernizing Turkmenistan's railway infrastructure. In particular, the … [Read more...]
In Istanbul, Transport Ministers of Uzbekistan, Iran, and Türkiye Agree to Accelerate the Development of the “Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Iran–Türkiye” Corridor
On the sidelines of the second meeting of Transport Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, a trilateral meeting was held between the Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan, Ilkhom Makhkamov, the Minister of Roads and Urban Development of Iran, Farzaneh Sadegh, and the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of Türkiye, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu. The … [Read more...]
Iran Unveils Major Container Terminal at Sarakhs border with Turkmenistan to Boost Central Asia Trade Links
Iran has established a significant new container transport complex at Sarakhs, a strategic border town with Turkmenistan in northeastern Iran, positioning the Islamic Republic as a crucial transit hub between China, Central Asia, and Europe, according to recent reports. The terminal, currently being constructed by China on the Iran-Turkmenistan border, marks a major … [Read more...]
Ambassador Ahmet Demirok Calls for Accelerated Efforts to Enhance Middle Corridor Efficiency
During a press conference in Ashgabat, the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, Ahmet Demirok, named the transport sector as one of the priority vectors of bilateral cooperation. Special attention was paid to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), an initiative that is garnering increasing global interest. The diplomat … [Read more...]
Expansion of Transit Potential for Turkmenbashi and Alyat Ports Discussed in Baku
A delegation from Turkmenistan led by Parahat Jumayev, Director of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, currently on a working visit to Azerbaijan, held a meeting with Eldar Salakhov, Director of Baku International Sea Trade Port CJSC. The meeting was also attended by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan, Gurbanmammet Elyasov, according to the Ministry of Foreign … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Actively Expands Transit Potential and International Freight Transport
The Ministry of Railway Transport of Turkmenistan is consistently working to increase freight volumes along key international transport corridors, primarily the "North–South" route. Special emphasis is placed on growing transit and international cargo flows, expanding the range of services, and creating competitive tariff conditions for shippers and carriers. Significant … [Read more...]
From the Caspian to the Persian Gulf: Kazakhstan and Iran Advance Logistics Projects
Elvira Kadyrova Astana and Tehran are intensifying efforts to strengthen transport and logistics links, positioning Iran as a key gateway for Kazakhstan. In a recent meeting, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Iran Ontalap Onalbayev discussed expanding bilateral connectivity with Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh. According to Kazakhstan's Foreign … [Read more...]
Minutes, not maps: making borders work for the Middle Corridor
Freight flows are realigning around new trade routes, but borders remain the weakest link. IRU presented concrete measures to streamline freight flows along the increasingly important Middle Corridor at a major Turkic Week event in Vienna. The Middle Corridor is responding to shifting global supply chains, geopolitical risks and the demand for resilient land routes. Since … [Read more...]
Central Asia’s Economic Rise: EDB Chief Economist on Transport Corridors, Logistics Boom, and the Path to Industrial Power
Central Asia is rapidly emerging as one of the world's most dynamic economic regions, with robust growth, expanding trade routes, and strategic opportunities in logistics and industry. Evgeny Vinokurov, Chief Economist of the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) shares his perspective on this transformation. Originally featured on The Astana Times YouTube channel, this interview … [Read more...]
Airspace of Iran
nCa Report Key Points Overview of Traffic and Revenue Iran's airspace serves as a vital link for global aviation, but the 2025 conflict introduced uncertainties. Current estimates indicate recovery toward pre-conflict levels, with fees supporting infrastructure. For details, see sources like Safe Airspace and OPS Group. Diversion Implications Diversions during … [Read more...]
Importance of Iran as Transit Territory
nCa Report Iran serves as a critical transit hub connecting the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe through a network of land, rail, and sea routes. Its strategic location facilitates the efficient movement of goods, supporting regional trade and economic integration. Over the last three years (2023-2025), Iran's transit infrastructure has seen … [Read more...]
Tokayev: Kazakhstan is Actively Developing Key Transit Corridors of Eurasia
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in an interview with the newspaper "Turkistan", spoke in detail about the strategic importance of the country's transit and logistics potential and its participation in international transport projects. Answering a question about priorities in the field of transit and logistics, the head of state emphasized that for landlocked … [Read more...]
China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) Railway: A Strategic Connectivity Project
nCa Short Report The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) railway is a pivotal infrastructure project designed to boost trade and economic ties across Central Asia, connecting China directly with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Initially proposed in the 1990s, it has gained significant traction as part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aiming to create alternative trade … [Read more...]
Belarus Launches Accelerated Rail Route to Iran via Russia and Central Asia
Elvira Kadyrova The largest logistics operator in Belarus, “Beltamozhservice”, has announced the launch of an accelerated container rail service for cargo delivery to Iran. The new route follows the eastern branch of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. Delivery time is just 13–15 days, making it … [Read more...]
UAE’s DP World Signs Deal to Modernize Afghanistan’s Key Trade Ports
Taliban-ruled Afghanistan is set to enhance its trade capabilities with Central Asian states and Pakistan through a new agreement with Dubai-based logistics giant DP World, as reported by multiple sources. Ariana News reports that the Ministry of Finance of Afghanistan and UAE-based DP World signed an investment term sheet on December 7 to modernize key commercial land … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan Develops Container Transportation to Europe via Turkmenbashi Port: 18 Block Trains Dispatched in 2025
JSC "Uztemiryo'lkonteyner," the operator of the container fleet for the Uzbekistan railways, successfully organized regular container shipments from Uzbekistan to European countries in 2025 via the seaport of Turkmenistan on the Caspian Sea – the Port of Turkmenbashi. In total, 18 block trains carrying mineral fertilizers, potassium, carbamide, aluminum, and copper … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Launches Modernized Border Checkpoints with Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
Elvira Kadyrova Kazakhstan has commissioned two upgraded automobile border checkpoints: "Kazygurt" on the border with Uzbekistan and "Temir-Baba" on the border with Turkmenistan, according to the official website of the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan. The upgrades have reduced border crossing times to as little as 30 minutes thanks to the introduction of new … [Read more...]
Transport integration in Central Asia: the contribution of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan
Ibrahimova Dildora, Head of the Centre for Transport and Logistics Development Studies at the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan Transport cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan is now taking on strategic importance, shaping a new architecture of connectivity in Central Asia and creating additional opportunities for the region to enter the wider … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Leads Central Asia with Fastest Customs Transit Times, GIZ Study Shows
Turkmenistan has the fastest customs transit processing in Central Asia, with an average clearance time of just 37 minutes, according to a new study conducted by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) between August and October 2025. The State Customs Service of Turkmenistan released the findings on 4 Dec, highlighting the country’s continuing leadership in … [Read more...]
“Specialized Logistics 2025”: The Association “Turkmen Logistics” and GIZ strengthen the potential of the transport industry
The Turkmen Logistics Association, in partnership with the GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation) Regional Project on Trade Facilitation in Central Asian countries, has successfully completed the cycle of intensive training courses "Specialized Logistics 2025". The event, which lasted from 25 to 27 November 2025, was aimed at improving the skills of specialists from … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan Forge Closer Economic Ties, Focus on $1 Billion Trade and New Transit Corridors
Deputy Prime Ministers of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan met in Astana today to accelerate economic partnership, setting their sights on a $1 billion trade target and securing vital logistics routes. Serik Zhumangarin, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, held discussions with Khodjamyrat Geldimyradov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers … [Read more...]
Report: Türkmentel-2025 and ITTC-2025 International Forums in Ashgabat
nCa Report Date: 12–14 November 2025 Location: Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan General Introduction On 12 November 2025, Ashgabat launched two landmark international events under a single roof for the first time: Organized by Turkmenistan’s consolidated transport and communications complex with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the … [Read more...]
First train on Russia-Iran cargo route covers 4000km in 12 days
On 8 November 2025, a milestone unfolded in the sphere of Eurasian trade when the first scheduled freight train from Russia pulled into Iran's Aprin dry port, right on the outskirts of Tehran. This wasn't some random shipment; it was a carefully coordinated effort that had been in the works to strengthen ties between Moscow and Tehran, especially amid ongoing global tensions … [Read more...]
Great Milestone in Maritime History of Turkmenistan – First Domestically Built Cargo Ship Launched
nCa Report On November 4, 2025, Turkmenistan marked a major milestone in its maritime history with the launching ceremony of the "Gadamly", the country's first domestically built cargo ship, an event that's being hailed as a symbol of national progress and international collaboration. This dry cargo vessel, with a carrying capacity of 6,100 tons and designed specifically … [Read more...]
The 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan–European Union Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat
On 7 November 2025, the 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan-European Union Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat. The delegation of Turkmenistan was headed by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy B.Yalakov. The delegation of the European Union was headed by Audrone Percauskene, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the European External Action … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Strengthens the Eurasian North-South Corridor: Foundation Laid for the Turkmenbashi–Garabogaz Highway Section, Bridge over Garabogazköl Bay Put into Operation
Turkmenistan is realizing a number of important transport projects in the western part of the country, aimed at improving connectivity within the country, as well as on a regional scale and within the framework of overall connectivity in Eurasia along the North-South route directions. On 2 November 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, visiting the Balkan … [Read more...]
New China-Central Asia Transport Corridor Launches Trial Operations
Seven trucks carrying containers departed from the Kashi International Hub Port in northwestern China's Xinjiang region on October 15, marking the launch of a trial international transport service connecting China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, according to Chinese state media reports. The multimodal transport corridor represents a significant development in … [Read more...]
Seamless Border: How Electronic Pre-Declaration Accelerates Import and Transit Through Turkmenistan
The State Customs Service of Turkmenistan continues to implement modern digital technologies aimed at streamlining customs procedures and facilitating international trade. One of the key components of this effort is the adoption of an electronic pre-declaration system for goods, as stipulated by the country’s Customs Code. As of 1 June 2024, carriers and other stakeholders … [Read more...]
Transit Through Central Asia Surges by 70% from 2020 to 2024
Central Asia is rapidly emerging as a key transit hub in Eurasia, proving that a lack of sea access is no barrier to economic growth. Thanks to its unique geographical position at the heart of the continent and the active implementation of infrastructure projects, the region is experiencing remarkable growth in transit transportation. According to data from the Eurasian … [Read more...]
Central Asia and China Open New Logistics Routes: Trial Launch of Multimodal Corridor to Turkmenistan
On Wednesday, 15 October, the trial operation of the international multimodal transport corridor linking China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan officially launched, according to Xinhua. The corridor features two multimodal routes, with goods transported by rail from Xi’an (Shaanxi Province, Northwest China) and Chengdu (Sichuan Province, Southwest China) to Kashgar … [Read more...]
China-Europe Freight Train Marks 50,000th Trip from Horgos Port
A China-Europe freight train loaded with electronic products, mechanical and electrical equipment, and daily necessities departed from the Horgos Railway Port in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for Małaszewicze, Poland, on Saturday, marking the 50,000th train to pass through the port since operations began in March 2016, according to the Global Times. The … [Read more...]
Doors to Asia and Europe: Turkmenistan’s Transport Strategy as the Foundation for Global Connectivity – Expert Opinion
Sapa Gurbanberdiyev, Deputy Chairman of the “Türkmen logistika” Association One of the key factors determining a country’s competitiveness in today’s geo-economic landscape, including Turkmenistan, is sustainable transport connectivity and efficient logistics. Robust and reliable transport systems are also vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including … [Read more...]
Report: China and Central Asia Railway Connections
nCa-AI Collaborative Report Key Points Current Railway Connections The primary links are at Alashankou-Dostyk and Khorgos-Altynkol, both on the China-Kazakhstan border. These handle the vast majority of rail cargo between China and Central Asia. A third crossing, Bakhty-Chuguchak, is being developed to increase capacity. No direct rail connections exist yet to … [Read more...]
Investing in Sustainable Transport: Unlocking Turkmenistan’s Potential for Trade and Job Growth
At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (Awaza, 18-19 Sep 2025), Uladzimir Valetka, Economist at the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Turkmenistan, emphasized the transformative power of sustainable transport in fostering trade, creating jobs, and driving inclusive economic growth. His speech highlighted Turkmenistan’s strategic role as a regional transit hub and … [Read more...]
TIF 2025: Turkmenistan’s Transport Strategy – Integrating into the Global Network
Elvira Kadyrova and Ravilya Kadyrova Awaza, September 18, 2025 – At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2025), Turkmenistan’s Minister of Railway Transport, Mammet Akammedov, unveiled the country’s logistics strategy, aimed at modernizing the transport sector and strengthening its role in global connectivity. Turkmenistan is actively implementing national programs to … [Read more...]
Energy, Industry, and Transport Sectors Dominate Discussions on First Day of TIF 2025
AWAZA, Turkmenistan – September 18, 2025 – The first day of the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2025) is featuring robust discussions on the nation's core economic sectors, with international experts and Turkmen officials exploring opportunities in energy, construction, and logistics. The day's agenda included dedicated sessions on critical areas for investment. "Session … [Read more...]
TIF 2025: Turkmenistan Modernizes Road Infrastructure to Become a Key Eurasian Transit Hub
Elvira Kadyrova and Ravilya Kadyrova Awaza, September 18 – At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2025), held in Awaza, Dovran Ataev, Deputy Chairman of the State Agency for the Management of Highway Construction, spoke about the large-scale modernization of the country's road infrastructure. According to him, Turkmenistan is actively working to bring its … [Read more...]
Record Growth in Freight Transport: China and Central Asia Strengthen Logistics Ties
In the first eight months of 2025, freight trains between China and Central Asia made 9,626 cross-border trips—an increase of 22.7% compared to the same period last year, setting a new record for this timeframe. During this period, 751,000 standard containers (TEU) were transported, marking a year-on-year growth of 31.1%, according to China Media Group. As of 31 August 2025, … [Read more...]
Iran Aims to Increase Cargo Transit with Turkmenistan to 20 Million Tons
From September 6 to 8, 2025, a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Minister of Railway Transport Mammet Akmammedov, visited Iran. The delegation held talks with Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, and the head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways, Jabbar Ali-Zakeri, according to IRNA news agency. The discussions focused on expanding … [Read more...]
“In the Revival of the Silk Road: Major Joint Projects in Transport Infrastructure”
Shoxjaxon Sikhnazarov, Chief Specialist of the Center for the Study of Transport Problems The Silk Road is one of the largest symbolic manifestations of economic and cultural integration in the history of human civilization, ensuring connections between East and West for almost two thousand years. Along the Silk Road, not only commercial goods - silk, wood, precious stones, … [Read more...]
Gas, Logistics, and Artificial Intelligence: Key Topics of the Meeting Between the President of Turkmenistan and the Vice-Premier of the State Council of China
On 2 September 2025, in Beijing, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and First Vice-Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, TDH reports. At the beginning of the talks, the Chinese official … [Read more...]