China Expands Role in Middle Corridor Development and Trade

China is expanding its participation in developing the Middle Corridor to enhance Eurasian trade connectivity, focusing on key agreements that prioritize rail modernization, logistics upgrades, and digital solutions for faster freight operations. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

China Targets Middle Corridor for Strategic Growth

At the beginning of July 2025, China Railway (CR) and Azerbaijan Railways (ADY) signed a memorandum in Beijing to strengthen cooperation on freight corridors. The plan emphasizes the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars (BTK) route, aiming to increase traffic to 10 trains per day.

Both sides agreed to improve rail and port infrastructure while boosting container traffic across the Caspian Sea. They highlighted the need for digital technologies to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and deliver reliable transport services along the corridor.

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China Joins Key Multimodal Ventures

China Railway Container Transport (CRCT), one of the nation’s largest container operators, intends to join Middle Corridor Multimodal, a joint venture launched in 2023 by Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ), Georgian Railways (GR), and ADY. This partnership oversees the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, a vital section of the Middle Corridor.

In parallel, CR and KTZ signed a new strategic cooperation agreement, replacing their 2014 deal. The agreement includes constructing new railways, upgrading existing lines, and expanding multimodal terminals. Both companies aim to adopt advanced digital tools to speed cross-border operations and reduce delays.

These initiatives reflect China’s strategy to diversify trade routes and strengthen connectivity between Asia and Europe. Regional countries expect higher investment flows, while shippers anticipate faster, more cost-effective transportation options.

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