BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. A transport and logistics center of Kusto Logistics has been launched in the Ili district of Kazakhstan's Almaty region, the press service of the Akimat (local administration) of Almaty region announced.
The facility will provide cargo reception, storage, handling and transportation services. A modern multimodal complex has been built on an area of more than 26.5 hectares, incorporating railway infrastructure, a container terminal, two warehouses, loading and unloading areas, road logistics facilities and a control center.
The center has an annual handling capacity of up to 100,000 containers. The project is expected to create 100 new jobs. Investments in the project amounted to 28.1 billion tenge (about $60.6 million).
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Akim (Governor) of Almaty region Marat Sultangaziyev said the logistics center would contribute to employment, the development of small and medium-sized businesses, the expansion of the tax base and economic growth in the region.
"The advantageous geographical location of the Ili district, its proximity to transport corridors and developed engineering infrastructure create favorable conditions for investors. The Akimat of Almaty region will continue its work in this direction. Every project implemented is a contribution to the region's socio-economic development, improving the well-being of the population and strengthening our country's competitiveness," Sultangaziyev said.
According to Kusto Group co-founder and shareholder Kanat Kopbayev, around 80% of containerized cargo in Kazakhstan passes through the Almaty transport hub, with a significant share coming from the country's northern regions.
He noted that the new terminal would become an important logistics link connecting northern and southern Kazakhstan. Through Almaty region, import and export cargo will be distributed to other regions of Kazakhstan and neighboring countries.
A 45-ton-capacity crane has been installed at the logistics center, capable of handling up to 25 containers per hour. The complex has a monthly cargo handling capacity of more than 111,000 tons.
Construction of a grain terminal is currently underway at the site. Once completed, the facility will be able to store up to 14,000 tons of agricultural products.
The project is being constructed under an EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) contract by Coteccons KZ.
