The first Trans-Caspian corridor shipment of lithium-ion batteries from China to Türkiye under the TIR system has demonstrated the potential for faster trade by significantly reducing transport times.
A pilot TIR operation via the Trans-Caspian route saw ten trucks operated by Chinese hauliers carry lithium-ion batteries from China’s Alashankou border crossing to Kazakhstan’s Port of Aktau. The cargo was then ferried across the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan by Ro-Ro vessel before continuing by road through Georgia to its destination in Türkiye.
Covering 7,000km in just three weeks, this journey marks a significant improvement over the typical 30 to 40 days required for maritime transport between China and Türkiye.
As China is the world’s largest producer of lithium-ion batteries, this development supports the growing demand for sustainable logistics solutions in the region. The transport of dangerous goods poses notable constraints, making road operations even more critical.
Additionally, as traditional overland routes are currently inaccessible, the Trans-Caspian corridor has become essential for east–west trade flows. The TIR system adds critical advantages, reducing border delays, transshipment times and damage risks, with a single carnet covering the entire journey.
This successful shipment follows the launch of a TIR pilot across the Caspian Sea in July 2024, jointly initiated by President Xi Jinping of China and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan. Building on this momentum, China and Kazakhstan’s transport ministers committed to further developing the corridor in December 2024.
These efforts promise to support regular TIR operations, positioning the Trans-Caspian route as an increasingly attractive option for global trade.