Kazakhstan has begun testing a new export route for shipping finished products to the United States via the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TMTM), marking a step toward diversifying logistics and expanding the geographic reach of its exports.
In early March, KTZ Express JSC organized the multimodal transport of a shipment of Kazakhstani flour along the route. The project is considered a pilot, but its results could help determine the prospects for establishing a sustainable commercial corridor.
The shipment consisted of 24 tons of wheat flour. The shipper was SALAMAT Company LLP, one of Kazakhstan’s leading flour producers. Transportation is being carried out in container format using both rail and maritime infrastructure. The route includes:
- Kostanay to the Port of Aktau by rail
- Crossing the Caspian Sea to the Port of Alyat (Azerbaijan)
- Transit through Georgia via the Port of Poti and across the Black Sea
- Further maritime transport via Istanbul and the Mediterranean Sea
- Entry into the Atlantic Ocean with final delivery to New York
The maritime segment of the route is being carried out in partnership with CMA CGM, one of the world’s largest container shipping companies.
The project demonstrates that the TMTM can be used for the delivery of higher value-added products to distant markets, including the U.S.
This is not the first shipment of Kazakhstani flour to the U.S. In 2025, the product had already entered the U.S. market, becoming available on platforms such as Amazon and Walmart, as well as being used by a number of bakeries.
Currently, there are plans to expand distribution, including entry into the restaurant and coffee shop segments. The Kazakhstani side is also preparing to supply flour to major retail chains such as Costco, Whole Foods Market, and Trader Joe’s.
According to project participants, the successful completion of the pilot shipment has confirmed the viability of the logistics model. As part of further development, there are plans to shorten the maritime segment. In particular, the option of shipping cargo directly from Istanbul to New York without additional stops at European ports is being considered, which would reduce delivery times.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether the route will be established as a regular commercial channel or remain a pilot project.
