Türkiye, October 2026 – Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has highlighted rising freight volumes between Kazakhstan and member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), with railway transportation approaching 40 million tonnes. Speaking at the 13th OTS Summit in Ankara, he identified transport and logistics cooperation as a priority for strengthening economic connectivity across the Turkic region.
The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, commonly known as the Middle Corridor, is playing an increasingly important role in connecting markets across the region. During the first nine months of 2026, cargo transportation along the corridor increased by 30%, while transit shipments grew by 90%, according to Tokayev. These figures reflect rising demand for alternative trade routes linking Asia and Europe.
Road freight transportation between Kazakhstan and OTS member states also recorded growth, increasing by 20% to reach 6.5 million tonnes. The figures highlight the importance of developing complementary rail and road infrastructure to support cross-border cargo movement and improve connections between regional markets.
Kazakhstan plans to introduce a special programme to expand its transit potential, with modernisation of logistics infrastructure and seaports along the Middle Corridor remaining key priorities. The country is also continuing to develop other international transport routes, including the North-South Corridor and the Belt and Road Initiative, to diversify its logistics connections and strengthen its position in Eurasian trade.
The expansion of transport links is supported by growing economic ties between Kazakhstan and OTS members. Bilateral trade turnover with these countries has increased by 40% compared with the previous year, reaching nearly US$10 billion. Continued investment in railway capacity, port facilities and cross-border logistics will be important in accommodating future freight demand and improving the efficiency of regional supply chains.
Source: Qazinform
Kazakhstan–OTS Rail Freight Traffic Nears 40 Million Tonnes
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Growing trade between Central Asia and neighbouring markets is increasing demand for reliable cross-border railway connections and integrated transport corridors. Kazakhstan has reported a 10% increase in rail freight traffic with member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), bringing volumes close to 40 million tonnes as the country strengthens its role as a regional logistics hub.
