TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 18. The development of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan–Afghanistan multimodal transport corridor faces significant challenges, particularly with infrastructure imperfections along certain sections of the route, notably in border logistics and multimodal terminals, a source at Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport told Trend.
"Among the main issues, the need to harmonize customs and transit procedures between the participating countries is highlighted, as well as ensuring the safety of transit, particularly on the Afghan section of the route. In addition, the limited experience of private sector interaction in the format of multimodal operations slows down the development of the corridor," the representative of the ministry added.
Despite these challenges, the project holds substantial potential for growth.
"The corridor offers significant prospects for boosting connectivity between Central and South Asia and China, expanding the export-import opportunities of the countries involved, attracting investment into logistics and transport infrastructure, and diversifying transport routes. This would, in turn, enhance the region's economic stability," the source emphasized.
Meanwhile, cargo transportation along the corridor currently involves road transport from Kashgar railway station (China) to Osh station (Kyrgyzstan), followed by rail transport through Uzbekistan. To encourage cargo flows, Uzbekistan has offered a substantial discount of 70 percent on transportation within its territory. Similar tariff incentives, up to 50 percent, have been introduced by other participating countries.
