Bakhty dry port adds third China rail link, boosting capacity by 25 mln tonnes/year
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The Bakhty multimodal dry port in Abai region, backed by $210 million in private investment, will become the third railway border crossing between Kazakhstan and China, adding 20-25 million tonnes in annual throughput. The project, launched with regional akim Berik Uali and Port Baqty founder Kairat Itemgenov, aims to relieve pressure on the congested Dostyk and Khorgos corridors.
Strategic Expansion
The Bakhty dry port will serve as the third railway border crossing with China, alongside the existing Dostyk and Khorgos points. The new route is expected to handle an additional 20-25 million tonnes of cargo annually and up to 1 million containers (TEU) at full capacity. This expansion will significantly reduce the current overload on the two existing corridors, where growing trade volumes have strained infrastructure.
Investment and Infrastructure
The project is funded by $210 million in private investment, with the first phase covering 150 hectares in Makanchy district. The logistics complex will include container and grain terminals, a customs zone, warehousing up to 50,000 square meters, bonded warehouses, a vehicle terminal, and service centers. Construction is planned in stages from 2026 to 2028.
Social and Employment Impact
During construction, the project will employ 800 to 1,200 workers, while the first operational phase will create 200 permanent jobs. The complex will feature a 200-bed hotel for shift and invited specialists, equipped with a canteen, laundry, gym, and a 24-hour medical center. These amenities are designed to ensure staff productivity and retention, in line with international industrial practices.
What's Next
The first terminal is expected to commence operations by late 2027, with the full complex scheduled for completion in 2028. It remains to be seen how quickly the Bakhty hub will attract freight flows and whether it can achieve its projected capacity amid regional competition.
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Bakhty dry port adds third China rail link, boosting capacity by 25 mln tonnes/year
