Kazakhstan, China target 300,000 TEU on TMTM by 2029
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Kazakhstan and China plan to increase cargo volume on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TMTM) to 300,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) by 2029, according to Kapital.kz. The target represents a significant expansion from current levels. The announcement was made during bilateral talks in Astana.
Route Expansion
The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor, connects China to Europe via Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Current annual capacity is estimated at around 80,000 TEU. The planned increase to 300,000 TEU by 2029 would require substantial infrastructure upgrades and streamlined customs procedures.
Bilateral Cooperation
Kazakh and Chinese officials discussed the target during a meeting of the bilateral cooperation committee in Astana. Kazakhstan's Ministry of Industry and Infrastructure Development highlighted the need for new container terminals and digital tracking systems. China's delegation emphasized the route's role in diversifying supply chains away from northern corridors.
What's Next
The two sides are expected to sign a formal agreement on the expansion plan by the end of 2026. It remains unclear how the necessary investments will be financed and whether the target is achievable given current infrastructure bottlenecks.
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Kazakhstan, China target 300,000 TEU on TMTM by 2029
