THE THE IMPACT OF THE TRANS-CASPIAN INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT ROUTE ON GLOBAL LOGISTICS IN THE CURRENT GEOPOLITICAL SITUATION

Abstract

In the current geopolitical and humanitarian climate, changes are taking place in the configurations of international transport corridors, including the reorientation of export and import flows in the China-Europe-China direction. In this context, freight transportation via the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) is becoming increasingly relevant. From a trade and economic perspective, the TITR, as an alternative route, primarily allows for the diversification of trade routes and improves transport accessibility for Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. This offers opportunities to deliver goods more quickly compared to the route through the Suez Canal and to bypass the transport corridor through Russia. Thus, the TITR presents an attractive alternative for investors and governments seeking to bolster trade and promote overall economic growth.

Kazakhstan is one of the most influential states in the Caspian region, holding significant strategic importance due to its geopolitical position, abundant natural resources, and transit potential. Kazakhstan’s advantageous geographical location along the TITR provides all the prerequisites for active investment in the development of the transport corridor in the region. It should be emphasized that Kazakhstan currently serves as a major transit country for large volumes of cargo between China and Western Europe.

This study focuses on the segment of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) that passes through the territories of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Specifically, it provides a detailed analysis of freight logistics from 2015 to 2023 and evaluates Kazakhstan’s potential role in the development of the TITR as a Central Asian hub in the global supply chain between China and Europe.