Middle Corridor Multimodal strengthens its position in the transport market

Middle Corridor Multimodal expanded its partnership by welcoming CRCT, which will accelerate Middle Corridor shipments and enhance service through new technology and improved coordination. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

New partnership boosts Middle Corridor Multimodal

In August 2025, Baku hosted an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting of Middle Corridor Multimodal, founded in 2023 by the railway administrations of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Kazakhstan. The meeting focused on digitalizing operations and removing bottlenecks along the Middle Corridor.

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The shareholders agreed to implement joint train movement monitoring, which will improve schedule accuracy and delivery times. This will give the route a competitive edge over maritime shipping.

CRCT’s role in Middle Corridor Multimodal

The most significant outcome was the accession of China Railway Container Transport (CRCT), a subsidiary of China’s national railways. The decision was recorded in the official protocol, and experts predict it will boost transit potential.

CRCT’s integration will introduce a “single window” approach, simplify documentation, and speed up cargo processing. Partners expect this will attract new customers and expand the geographical reach of shipments.

Currently, cargo delivery from China to Europe via the Middle Corridor takes 15–18 days—nearly twice as fast as sea transport. In 2024, Azerbaijan received 287 container trains from China, while from January to July 2025, it had already handled 225 trains carrying 24,000 TEU.

The shareholders also aim to strengthen cooperation with ports and logistics hubs along the route. This will increase capacity and reduce transfer times between different transport modes.

FAQ

What is Middle Corridor Multimodal?

It is a joint venture between Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Kazakhstan that coordinates shipments via the Middle Corridor.

Can shipments be faster via Middle Corridor Multimodal?

Yes, the route can reduce delivery time from China to Europe to 15–18 days, which is faster than sea shipping.

How does CRCT contribute to the project’s development?

The company brings expertise in Chinese container transport and technology, including a “single window” system to speed up cargo processing.

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