Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have agreed to significantly expand bilateral rail freight traffic, targeting a gradual increase to 60 million tons. The agreement was reached during a meeting between the transport ministers of the two countries as part of efforts to strengthen Kazakhstan’s transit capacity.
Both sides highlighted the strategic importance of rail connectivity in boosting trade, expanding international transit corridors and enhancing regional transport integration. Officials noted strong potential for further growth in cargo flows and improved logistical efficiency.
In 2025, rail freight volume between the two nations reached 32.3 million tons, marking a 16% increase compared to 2024.
To sustain this momentum, the parties approved a Joint Action Plan focused on upgrading border infrastructure at the Saryagash, Oasis and Syrdarya junctions and completing key projects, including the Darbaza–Maktaral railway section.
Currently, up to 36 train pairs pass daily through Saryagash, with plans to increase capacity to 40. The Oasis crossing handles two train pairs per day, with expansion planned to ten. Following the launch of the Darbaza–Maktaral section, the Syrdarya junction is expected to accommodate up to ten train pairs daily.
The meeting also addressed synchronization of infrastructure and maintenance works, improvement of control procedures and optimization of operational coordination. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation and ensuring steady growth in rail freight volumes.
