Uzbekistan plans to launch its own ferry operations in the Caspian Sea to accelerate external trade shipments, according to Minister of Transport Ilhom Makhkamov. In an interview with Uzbekistan 24, he emphasised the strategic importance of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s recent visit to Azerbaijan in boosting both economic and transport ties.
The Middle Corridor, a key trade route for Uzbekistan, passes through Azerbaijan and remains vital for export and import flows. Makhkamov confirmed that preferential tariffs for container transport via Azerbaijan have been extended until the end of 2026, offering up to 70% discounts.
Joint ferry operations and regional logistics cooperation
“We are also engaged in international negotiations and working on ferry operations by Uzbek companies on the Caspian Sea. Given the growing volume of cargo traffic across the Caspian, ferries are currently delayed by 30 to 40 days, causing significant shipment hold-ups. Therefore, Uzbek companies, in partnership with Turkish firms, have decided to operate their own ferries on the Caspian Sea,” said the minister.
Makhkamov also noted that the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project, once operational, will contribute further to regional freight growth. Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan have already reached agreements to expand and modernise supporting logistics infrastructure.
As part of a broader push for integration, the two countries are discussing the creation of a joint logistics company, along with the construction of storage facilities and distribution hubs in Baku and third-country ports.
Kursiv also reports that Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have jointly launched the Green Corridor Union.
