Azerbaijan welcomes the 300th block train from China along the Middle Corridor”/>
The 300th container block train was sent from China to Azerbaijan along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TMTM – Middle Corridor). This train, starting from the Kazakh-Chinese terminal in the Chinese city of Xi’an, will pass through Kazakhstan and arrive at the Baku International Sea Trade Port on December 8-10. The association of sending the block train was carried out within the framework of cooperation between ADY Express and Xi’an Free Trade Port.
As Day.Az was told by Azerbaijan Railways CJSC, at the moment the volume of goods transported through TMTM from China has exceeded 27 thousand containers in 20-foot equivalent, which is 25 times more than in the same period last year. This indicates growing interest from shippers in the Middle Corridor as an critically important transport route connecting China to Europe via Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan.
In addition, by 2025 it is planned to increase the number of block trains sent from China to Azerbaijan and europe by more than 3 times, bringing them to 1000 per year. Cargo transportation also began in the opposite direction: on November 24, the first Baku-Xian export block train, consisting of 62 40-foot containers, was sent. This route will provide multimodal delivery to one of the largest land ports in China – the port of Xi’an.In total, by the end of the year it is planned to send 600 containers, which amounts to 15 thousand tons of export cargo.
The development of cargo transportation between China and Azerbaijan helps strengthen the Middle Corridor as an important transport artery and provides shippers with access to fast and efficient delivery services in both directions.
How is the Middle Corridor expected to impact trade relationships between central Asia and Europe?
Interview with Transportation Expert on the Growth of the Middle Corridor
Editor at Time.news: Thank you for joining us today. The recent news about the 300th block train sent from China to Azerbaijan via the Middle Corridor is quite remarkable. Can you share your insights on why this milestone is significant for international trade?
Expert: Thank you for having me. The dispatch of the 300th container block train is a significant event as it showcases the rapid growth of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TMTM). This route is an essential artery connecting China to Europe, and the milestone highlights the increased efficiency and reliability of this transport channel. The volume of goods transported has surged to over 27,000 containers, which is notable considering it’s 25 times more than the same period last year.
Editor: Incredible growth indeed. What do you think has driven this surge in interest from shippers to utilize the Middle Corridor?
Expert: several factors contribute to this trend. The Middle Corridor offers a strategic option for shippers looking to bypass congested sea routes and reduce transit times. Moreover, the partnership between ADY Express and Xi’an Free trade Port demonstrates a commitment to smooth logistics, which attracts more businesses. The planned increase to 1,000 block trains per year by 2025 indicates that observers anticipate ongoing demand.
Editor: That’s a noteworthy projection. In addition to the incoming block trains from China, we’ve also seen the launch of the Baku-Xi’an export block train. How does this develop the trade relationship between Azerbaijan and China?
Expert: The introduction of the Baku-Xi’an export block train is a significant development. It facilitates multimodal delivery, ultimately allowing azerbaijan to access one of China’s largest land ports more efficiently. Export cargo is also expected to reach 600 containers by the end of the year, totaling 15,000 tons. this reciprocal trade will likely strengthen economic ties and provide both countries with expanded market access.
Editor: With such developments in cargo transportation, what practical advice would you give to businesses considering these routes?
Expert: Businesses should certainly look into the Middle Corridor as a viable logistics option. They should consider the shorter transit times compared to traditional shipping methods. Additionally,companies should maintain a flexible approach,as routes and services continue to evolve rapidly. Collaborating with logistics partners who have experience in this corridor can also ease the transition.
Editor: As an expert, how do you see the future of the Middle Corridor evolving over the next few years?
Expert: The future looks promising. With the expected increase in block trains and the burgeoning demand for efficient supply chains, the Middle Corridor is set to become a critical transport route for global trade. Moreover, investments in infrastructure and technology will likely enhance service offerings and further attract shippers from various sectors.
Editor: thank you for your insights! It’s clear that the Middle Corridor is not only strengthening trade links between china and Azerbaijan but is poised to become an indispensable part of the global supply chain.
expert: Absolutely, and I’m excited to see how this route will transform logistics in the years to come. Thank you for having me.