Development of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor Accelerates

Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ) has accelerated the development of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor by securing a $590 million syndicated loan through a three-year agreement with two major international banks. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Development of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor Enters a New Phase

KTZ signed a loan agreement with Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Deutsche Bank to attract up to 480 million Swiss francs (equivalent to $590 million). The funds will be directed toward the development of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor, including the construction of new sections and the modernization of overloaded lines.

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Additionally, part of the financing will be used to refinance existing loans, which will reduce debt pressure and enhance financial stability. This capital allocation supports sustainable growth in the logistics sector.

In the first half of 2025, freight turnover across the national mainline railway network reached 103.9 billion ton-kilometers, including 48 billion for exports and 11.5 billion for imports. Revenue from freight operations amounted to $694.67 million, while expenditures totaled approximately $626.1 million, reflecting a healthy margin. Around $154 million was invested in the development program, including $59.4 million in borrowed funds.

Priority Projects within the Development of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor

KTZ continues construction of second tracks on the Dostyk–Moyynty section and the bypass around the Almaty rail hub, both scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. Work is also underway on new lines: Darbaza–Maktaaral (152 km) and Kyzylzhar–Moyynty (366 km). In parallel, the Altinkol–Zhetygen section (293 km) is being modernized, and 2,267 km of tracks are being equipped with modern train control systems.

According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport, investments in railway infrastructure could generate up to $10 billion in economic impact by 2035. This underscores the corridor’s strategic importance and the country’s ambition to become a key logistics hub in Eurasia.

FAQ

What is the development of the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway Corridor?

It is a large-scale infrastructure program aimed at modernizing and expanding Kazakhstan’s east-west transit capabilities.

Can these investments bring economic benefits?

Yes, government forecasts estimate up to $10 billion in returns by 2035.

When will key railway sections be completed?

The Dostyk–Moyynty section and the Almaty bypass are expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

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