Kazakhstan and China have entered into a renewed strategic agreement to enhance rail connectivity and increase freight volumes along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor. The agreement, formalized in Beijing between Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) and China State Railway Group, replaces a 2014 framework and reflects the evolving priorities in railway transport and logistics between the two countries. KTZ emphasizes that this agreement aims to solidify Kazakhstan's role as a key logistics hub between East and West and to expand the Middle Corridor's capacity as a viable alternative trade route connecting China and Europe.

Rail freight between China and Kazakhstan is experiencing rapid growth. From January to May 2025, cargo volumes reached 14.2 million tons, marking an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. Grain exports have significantly surged 46%, reaching 1.6 million tons. The Zhetysu container terminal in Almaty, a key component of the strengthened transport network, opened on June 10. Kazakhstan and China jointly developed the terminal, which will serve as a central logistics hub to consolidate and distribute Chinese cargo transported by rail and road. The enhanced focus on the Middle Corridor occurs amidst global efforts to diversify trade routes and reduce dependence on traditional routes through Russia.