Logistics limits Uzbekistan–Kazakhstan trade growth

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Logistical constraints remain one of the key factors limiting the growth of trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, according to Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin, speaking on the special project President hosted by journalist Adil Baltabayev.

According to him, one of the most congested routes is the Tashkent–Saryagash transport hub, where high pressure is observed on export and transit flows.

Zhumangarin said that Kazakhstan has begun construction of a 103-kilometre bypass road around Saryagash and is also completing the Darbaza–Maktaaral railway project. He estimated that these measures will allow up to 20 million tons of cargo to be redirected away from the Tashkent hub and reduce transport pressure on key routes.

In addition, Kazakhstan plans to build the Beineu–Saksaulsky highway, which is expected to shorten the route from Uzbekistan to the Caspian Sea ports. Work is also underway to expand the Kyzylorda–Aktobe road into a four-lane highway.

Zhumangarin noted that the development of transport infrastructure creates additional opportunities for Uzbek exporters and businesses in general.

Issues of transport connectivity were also discussed at the interstate level. During the recent visit of Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Bukhara, the sides focused on modernizing border infrastructure, eliminating bottlenecks, and forming efficient transport corridors providing access to external markets.

It was also noted that automobile and railway checkpoints between the two countries are being expanded. In particular, the opening of the “Zhibek Zholy” (“Gishtkuprik”) checkpoint is planned for September. It will be able to serve up to 70,000 people and more than 2,000 vehicles per day.

According to the National Statistics Committee, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan amounted to US$4.69 billion in 2025.

The figure increased by 11.3% compared to the previous year, although the growth rate remains lower than that of trade with several other major partners of the country.