ASTANA — Kazakhstan is set to boost the capacity of its ports from 21 million tons to 30 million tons by 2030, in an effort to enhance the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor), according to a report by Trend.

According to Trend News Agency, this initiative involves expanding container terminal capacities, upgrading transshipment equipment, and enhancing logistics. It also includes streamlining customs and administrative procedures and advancing the digitalization of both the TITR and North-South transport corridors. These developments are crucial for accommodating the growing freight demands on the Middle Corridor, which serves as a vital link between China and Europe through rail and sea transport.

From January through July 2024, Kazakhstan reported a significant rise in sea and coastal cargo transport, recording 1.6 million tons, a more than double increase from the previous year. This period also saw a corresponding rise in cargo turnover, reaching 966 million ton-kilometers, marking the highest figures since 2020 for both the specified period and annually. This growth is largely attributed to the expanding use of the Middle Corridor, highlighting its increasing importance in global logistics.