For the first time in Azerbaijan-China trade, the inaugural export train has departed from Baku to China, according to Azerbaijan Railways (ADY). The event highlights Azerbaijan’s growing role in global logistics.
The departure ceremony in Baku was attended by representatives from Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan railways, the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) secretariat, and China’s Xi’an Chanba International Port Management Committee. The train’s destination is Xi’an, one of China’s major dry ports.
Key Details of the Initiative
The inaugural Baku-Xi’an train includes 62 forty-foot containers, transported multimodally through Kazakhstan. By the end of 2024, the project aims to move 15,000 tons or 600 containers of Azerbaijani exports to China.
Deputy Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways, Arif Aghayev, called the initiative a significant boost for Azerbaijan’s export potential. “This initiative will not only elevate Azerbaijan’s export potential to a new level but also strengthen our country’s strategic position in the global trade system. Today’s event is of great importance for cargo transportation in both directions along the West-East route,” he said.
“Local entrepreneurs will now be able to send their cargo directly to China via the Middle Corridor. As ADY, we are working on several important projects to transform our country into an international transport and logistics hub,” he added.
Ziya Aghayev, Chairman of Absheron Logistics Center, emphasised the project’s economic impact. “This project will both contribute to the development of the local economy and increase foreign investors’ interest in our country. Azerbaijan’s integration into the international trade network is progressing rapidly,” he noted.
Logistics Strategy Shift
The route marks a shift in Azerbaijan’s logistics, previously reliant on Georgia’s Black Sea ports. ADY, the Absheron Logistics Center, Baku International Sea Trade Port, and Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company CJSC are now using Azerbaijan’s ports and infrastructure for direct export processes.
This initiative improves export capabilities while increasing cargo flow, handling capacity, and revenues for stakeholders along the Middle Corridor.
Growing Ties with China
Since early 2024, 280 container block trains have been sent from China to Azerbaijan, with over 300 expected by year-end. Plans for 2025 aim to raise this figure to 1,000 block trains.
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