RT by @mikenov: RT by @mikenov: China and Kazakhstan are actively developing alternative logistics routes to Europe bypassing Russia. Despite more complex logistics, Beijing and Astana are advancing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor). Key drivers include Russia’s sanctions-related risks and the desire to reduce dependence on unstable maritime routes. Kazakhstan’s national railway company KTZ plans to invest around $10 billion by 2030 in railway, port, and terminal infrastructure. In 2026 alone, they intend to build 900 km of new railway lines, including a third crossing on the China-Kazakhstan border. KTZ is also investing over $100 million in six new cargo ves

China and Kazakhstan are actively developing alternative logistics routes to Europe bypassing Russia.

Despite more complex logistics, Beijing and Astana are advancing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor).

Key drivers include Russia’s sanctions-related risks and the desire to reduce dependence on unstable maritime routes.

Kazakhstan’s national railway company KTZ plans to invest around $10 billion by 2030 in railway, port, and terminal infrastructure. In 2026 alone, they intend to build 900 km of new railway lines, including a third crossing on the China-Kazakhstan border. KTZ is also investing over $100 million in six new cargo vessels for the Aktau–Kuryk–Baku route.

The Middle Corridor stretches over 4,250 km through Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey.

Cargo volumes continue to grow steadily: 4.7 million tons were transported in 2025. In the first quarter of 2026, around 173 trains were sent, with each carrying 55 containers. In April 2026, a new daily record was set – six trains from China in one day.

Once operating at full capacity, the route is expected to significantly reduce Russia’s role as a key transit hub between Asia and Europe.

— @Gerashchenko_en Jun 1, 2026