High-Speed Railway Tashkent — Samarkand

Uzbekistan is finalizing the feasibility study, and the high-speed railway Tashkent — Samarkand will move into the tendering phase starting in early 2026. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

High-speed railway as a national priority

Uzbekistan has prioritized one of its most significant infrastructure initiatives — the high-speed railway Tashkent — Samarkand. Minister of Transport Ilkhom Makhkamov announced that preparation of tender documentation will begin in January 2026. This was reported by spot.uz.

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The feasibility study is being developed by the South Korean consortium K-Rail One Team. The project is financed through grants from the Korea Eximbank, reflecting strong international cooperation. Trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 300 km/h, making it one of the fastest lines in Central Asia.

In September 2024, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined a broader plan for new high-speed corridors, including Samarkand — Navoi — Bukhara. However, the Tashkent — Samarkand route remains the government’s flagship direction for modern rail development.

Strategic impact and international cooperation

The high-speed railway will boost economic growth by cutting travel time, improving regional mobility, and creating new logistics opportunities for business.

Moreover, the project will stimulate employment in construction, strengthen trade connectivity, and reflect the country’s commitment to modernization. While official cost estimates remain undisclosed, experts suggest the project may cost several hundred million $.

This infrastructure effort, built to international standards, enhances investor confidence and national credibility. Uzbekistan is clearly taking a strategic and systematic approach, combining domestic priorities with international partnerships.

FAQ

What is the high-speed railway Tashkent — Samarkand?

It’s a major infrastructure project in Uzbekistan designed for train speeds up to 300 km/h between the capital and Samarkand.

When will construction start?

According to the Ministry of Transport, the tendering process will begin in January 2026 after the feasibility study is completed by the end of 2025.

Can this route be used for international freight transport?

The project is focused on domestic connectivity, but future integration into regional logistics networks is possible.

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