Alataw Railway Port Sets New Freight Record In 2026

China, August 2026 – Alataw Pass Railway Port handled a record 12.4 million tonnes of cargo during the first seven months of 2026, representing a 14.1% increase from the same period last year. The growth highlights the continuing expansion of rail freight activity through one of China's key western gateways to Eurasian markets.

The port has expanded its operational capacity alongside rising volumes. Railway, customs and border authorities have established a joint coordination mechanism that has reduced cargo clearance times to less than four hours. The port can handle as many as 33 train handovers per day, while 129 China-Europe freight train routes currently connect the facility with 21 countries and regions.

For railway operators and logistics stakeholders, the figures point to the growing importance of efficient border operations alongside physical rail capacity. The port has also introduced tailored logistics solutions for 54 local companies, helping reduce transportation costs and improve the efficiency of international freight movements.

The latest performance follows strong growth earlier in the year. Alataw Pass recorded 10.72 million tonnes of freight between January and April, up 11% year on year, while its China-Europe freight network had already reached 128 routes serving 21 countries at that stage.

The continued increase in cargo volumes demonstrates how rail corridors across Central Asia are becoming increasingly significant components of international supply chains. With higher throughput, faster customs processing and an expanding China-Europe service network, Alataw is strengthening its position as a strategic rail gateway between China and markets across Eurasia.

Source: CGTN