Kazakhstan launches construction of three highways, shortening China-Europe cargo route by 1,000 km
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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev launched construction of three new highways linking Kyzylorda, Ulgaysyn, and Beineu to Saksaulsk. The projects, involving Kazakh companies, will create over 10,000 jobs and boost annual cargo traffic to 13.2 million tonnes.
Route Details and Employment
Tokayev inaugurated the construction of three highways: Kyzylorda–Saksaulsk, Ulgaysyn–Saksaulsk, and Beineu–Saksaulsk. The first two routes span 774 km and will be built by domestic companies, creating more than 10,000 jobs. The Beineu–Saksaulsk link connects the western Mangystau region to the Saksaulsk junction.
Cargo Traffic Expansion
Once operational, the highways are expected to increase annual cargo flow 2.5 times, reaching 13.2 million tonnes. Kazakhstan aims to leverage its geographic position as a transit corridor between China and Europe. The government has not disclosed a completion date for the projects.
Trans-Caspian Shortcut
The Beineu–Saksaulsk road directly connects China’s border crossings with the Caspian Sea ports of Aktau and Kuryk. It reduces the overland distance for Chinese goods to Europe by approximately 1,000 km and cuts delivery time to three days. The route bypasses Russian territory, offering a southern corridor through Central Asia.
What's Next
The Ministry of Transport is expected to announce a contractor tender in the coming weeks. It remains unclear how the projects will be financed amid Kazakhstan’s budget constraints.
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Kazakhstan launches construction of three highways, shortening China-Europe cargo route by 1,000 km
