Kazakh-Chinese Container Terminal Launches in Almaty

The Zhetysu container terminal, a new logistics hub jointly developed by Kazakhstan and China, officially opened in Almaty on June 10, marking a significant step in regional freight infrastructure development. The project is a partnership between Kazakhstan’s national railway operator, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), and Xi’an Free Trade Port Construction and Operation Co., Ltd. of China. Designed to handle up to 115,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) annually, the Zhetysu terminal is expected to serve as a strategic center for consolidating and distributing Chinese goods transported via rail and road. Situated at the intersection of key international transit corridors, the terminal is positioned to become Kazakhstan’s largest import hub and a vital link along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), a growing trade pathway connecting China and Europe through Central Asia. The facility spans 9.8 hectares. Its container yard covers 9,200 square meters and can store up to 1,101 TEU at a time. It also features 23,400 square meters of warehouse space and an 8,900-square-meter parking area for commercial vehicles. The terminal’s launch was marked by the arrival of the first container train from Xi’an, home to the Kazakh-Chinese cargo terminal that began operations in February 2024. Yuan Xiaojun, General Director of Xi’an Free Trade Port Construction and Operation, described the new Almaty terminal as both a symbol of China-Kazakhstan cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and a catalyst for greater regional economic integration. “This international logistics hub will help ensure sustainable growth in economic cooperation between China, Kazakhstan, and the broader Eurasian region,” Yuan said.

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Aim to Increase Trade to $3 Billion

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan have reaffirmed their commitment to significantly boost bilateral trade, aiming to reach $3 billion annually by 2030. The pledge was made during a meeting between Daniyar Amangeldiyev, First Deputy Chairman of Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet of Ministers, and Serik Zhumangarin, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, on the sidelines of the Astana International Forum on May 30. In 2024, trade between the two countries totaled $1.7 billion. The new target reflects a strategic initiative set by the presidents of both nations to deepen economic integration. Roadmap for Trade Expansion At the meeting, officials discussed a draft roadmap to accelerate bilateral trade. Zhumangarin noted that Kazakhstan is prepared to increase its exports to Kyrgyzstan by more than $260 million, with a focus on petrochemicals, food products, and metallurgy. In the first quarter of 2025, trade between the two countries reached $435.1 million, a 25.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Kazakhstan’s exports stood at $341.9 million, while imports from Kyrgyzstan totaled $93.3 million. Agriculture: A Key Growth Sector Agricultural products now account for 20% of bilateral trade, and this figure continues to rise. In Q1 2025, trade in agricultural goods surged by 40.7%. Kazakhstan exported 3,400 tons of grain and 10,900 tons of flour to Kyrgyzstan during this period. In a notable development, Kazakhstan has approved Kyrgyzstan’s proposal to establish a “green-light” corridor at the border, ensuring the unhindered passage of early-season fruits and vegetables from Kyrgyzstan. Major Logistics Hub to Boost Connectivity A flagship joint project is the creation of an Industrial Trade and Logistics Complex at the Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan border. Located near the Karasu and Ak-Tilek checkpoints, the hub is poised to become one of Central Asia’s largest cargo distribution centers, supporting the consolidation, processing, and transit of goods. Land has already been allocated for the project: 50 hectares on the Kazakh side and 40 hectares on the Kyrgyz side. An investor has been identified, and work on a master plan and feasibility study is currently underway. To support this initiative, Kazakhstan has established the Alatau industrial zone in the Zhambyl region. The zone will host facilities for agricultural processing, as well as the production of consumer goods and building materials. Infrastructure Connectivity: Almaty-Issyk-Kul Highway Project The meeting also touched on the long-anticipated construction of an alternative highway linking Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, with Lake Issyk-Kul, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most popular tourist destinations. The project is expected to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate tourism and trade between the two countries.