Kazakhstan strengthens its position as a transit hub: checkpoints on the border with Uzbekistan and China have been upgraded

Since the beginning of 2025, Kazakhstan has completed the modernization of four automobile checkpoints — two on the border with Uzbekistan and two on the border with China. The upgrades are part of a large-scale program to strengthen the country's logistics potential as it seeks to secure its status as a Central Asian transit hub.

The upgrade affected the following transitions::

• With Uzbekistan: "Kaplanbek" and "Atameken"
• With China: "Kalzhat" and "Alakol"

Technological re-equipment was carried out at each object, including an increase in the number of traffic lanes from two to six, the introduction of the "one window" principle and the automation of all procedures. The border crossing time now does not exceed 30 minutes, and the process itself is carried out without the need to leave the vehicle.

According to the State Revenue Committee, the new points meet international standards and provide a high level of safety and comfort for all categories of road users. A single technological corridor eliminates unnecessary stops and speeds up cargo and passenger handling.

Work in Kazakhstan is not limited to these four points. Modernization of five more road crossings will be completed by the end of 2025:

• With Uzbekistan: Kazygurt and Tazhen
• With Turkmenistan: "Temir Baba"
• With China: Maikapchagai and Bakhty

At the same time, preparations are underway for the implementation of a long-term state program, according to which 37 checkpoints will be reconstructed in the republic by 2030, including key areas on the border with Russia.

Such a large-scale infrastructure upgrade has a strategic goal-to turn Kazakhstan into a major transit hub connecting East and Central Asia with Europe. Key cargo transportation routes from China to Russia, Turkey, the Persian Gulf and the European Union already pass through the country. Improving the logistics architecture is in the interests not only of Kazakhstan itself, but also of partner states, including Uzbekistan, that are directly interested in smooth and accelerated trade.

The emerging transport artery significantly expands the economic horizons of the region, reduces logistics costs and creates conditions for the flow of investment to the border zones. Uzbekistan, as Kazakhstan's closest neighbor and strategic partner, benefits directly from these changes: the upgraded crossings simplify export-import operations and strengthen integration ties in Central Asia.