How did KTZ conclude the year 2024? What target indicators have been set for 2025?
In 2024, railway transport achieved a record operational freight turnover of 272.1 billion ton-kilometers. The overall freight volume rose by 2%, amounting to 303.2 million tons.
Moreover, transit transportation has shown steady annual growth over the last eight years and set a new record in 2024, reaching 27.4 million tons.
Has the range of transported goods changed over the past three years?
In the last three years, no major changes have been observed in the range of transported goods, reflecting stability in the logistics sector. This stability enables companies to better plan their operations and streamline delivery processes.
It is important to note that such stability fosters stronger partnerships between carriers and customers and minimizes risks related to disruptions in logistics chains.
What are the plans for enhancing Kazakhstan's transit potential?
Developing Kazakhstan's transit potential is a top priority for the state.
JSC NC KTZ is pursuing a comprehensive strategy focused on enhancing the competitiveness of transport corridors crossing the country and boosting the appeal of transit through Kazakhstan.
The steady growth of global transit underscores Kazakhstan's strategic role as a key player in the transport market along the East-West and North-South axes, and we are systematically working to diversify transit routes.
Recognizing the potential of the Trans-Caspian route, we are developing the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor, which will stretch from the borders with China to the Caspian ports.
To accommodate the rapidly increasing volumes, we are implementing measures to enhance the capacity of transit routes by improving infrastructure, including areas near junction points.
In 2025, we aim to complete a major infrastructure project, including the construction of second tracks on the Dostyk–Moyynty railway section and the Almaty bypass, both critical elements of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor.
For its final development, construction is planned for the Moyynty–Kyzylzhar section, extending the Dostyk–Moyynty line, along with modernizing 1,600 km of existing tracks. This modernization includes constructing new passing sidings and developing junction points, as well as building infrastructure for automatic blocking systems.
This will create a specialized container corridor featuring modern technologies, including double-stack container trains and next-generation locomotives running on liquefied natural gas.
Furthermore, the Darbaza–Maktaaral railway line is set to be completed in 2026, while the construction of the third railway crossing at Bakhty-Ayagoz continues.
A transport and logistics cluster has been established, with the following logistics operators active on each key route:
- Northern Corridor: UTLC, a collaboration between Kazakhstan, Russia, and Belarus.
- Middle Corridor: a joint venture with Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, with China is planning to join. Additionally, a joint venture with the Singaporean company PSA is functioning within this corridor.
- North-South Route: a logistics operator has been established in partnership with Abu Dhabi Port Group, and a joint venture is being created with the participation of Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan.
Competitive tariffs have been implemented across all these routes, allowing for sustained growth rates.
JSC NC KTZ continues to establish a transport and logistics framework along major transit routes and is expanding its terminal network both internationally and within Kazakhstan.
A robust terminal network improves logistics processes and, combined with stable tariffs, boosts the overall efficiency of cargo transportation, supports the development of international trade, and stimulates economic growth.
Currently, we operate in five terminals: the port of Lianyungang, the Dry Port in Xi'an, the terminal at Dostyk station, the Khorgos Gateway Dry Port, and the ferry complex at the port of Kuryk. At the same time, we are working on the development of four additional terminals: a cargo terminal at the Port of Alat, a container hub at the Port of Aktau, a terminal at Selyatino station, and a logistics complex at the cargo terminal of JSC Kedentransservice at Almaty-2 station.
Domestically, plans include the construction of terminals in Astana, at Altynkol station, and in the Kostanay region.
To enhance the speed and precision of cargo processing, we are implementing digital technologies, which will optimize business processes and improve the transparency and efficiency of transportation for our partners..
Strengthening international cooperation is one of our main focus areas. Through active engagement with neighboring countries and global partners, we are able to streamline border procedures, foster integration, and work together on the creation of new logistics routes and services.
As a shareholder, what is your assessment of UTLC ERA's performance and its future potential?
UTLC ERA is steadily progressing, achieving growth even in the face of external challenges, which underscores its adaptability to evolving market conditions.
In 2024, transportation volumes on the UTLC ERA service grew by 80.3%, reaching 380.7 thousand TEUs. This reflects the strong demand for our services and the efficiency of our strategic decisions.
The company's operations continue uninterrupted, and together with our shareholders, we remain focused on further route development. UTLC is a high-potential project, and we are confident in its continued success.
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