Minister of Transport Marat Karabaev announced the readiness for transporting the new grain harvest during a recent government meeting, reporting a 24% y/y increase in grain cargo transportation by rail since September, with 1.05mn tons transported so far. Of this total, 867,000 tons were designated for export, while 186,000 tons were distributed within the republic.

Karabaev highlighted a 28% rise in transportation to traditional destinations in Central Asian countries. Additionally, shipments to Iran via the port of Aktau have resumed, with September’s volume reaching 140,000 tons.

Looking ahead, the minister projected that grain transportation in October would meet demand at approximately 1.25mn tons, representing a 26% increase from October of the previous year. He confirmed that the monthly transportation rate is expected to maintain a steady range of 1.2mn to 1.3mn tons until the year’s end. 

“There are reserves of throughput capacity in the export directions of Central Asia,” he stated.

The transportation efforts are supported by a fleet of 11,800 grain carriers, which includes 6,000 suitable for export and 16,000 covered wagons designated for milled products. The national operator boasts a sufficient number of traction resources, with 1,621 locomotives, including 185 newly purchased units, 20 of which are shunting locomotives.

To ensure efficient coordination, a special headquarters has been established at the Ministry of Transport, where prompt response measures are implemented to address any emerging challenges in grain transportation.