A new cooperation agreement signed between Kazakhstans Kuryk Port and Russias Makhachkala Sea Commercial Port highlights growing competition for logistics routes in the Caspian region. The primary objective of the agreement is to redirect part of the cargo flows currently moving along the China–Central Asia–Turkmenbashi corridor to the Kuryk–Makhachkala route.
According to sea-news.az the agreement coincides with the completion of dredging works at Kuryk Port. The project is expected to increase the port’s cargo handling capacity and strengthen its ability to attract transit cargo moving along the Middle Corridor.
At present, Turkmenbashi Port remains one of the largest logistics hubs in the Caspian Sea. In 2025, the port handled more than 7.3 million tons of cargo, a figure close to the combined cargo turnover of Kazakhstan’s main seaports.
Among the advantages of the new route are a reduced number of border crossings and a shorter logistics chain for cargo transportation. However, the route’s passage through Russian territory creates certain risks related to international sanctions.
Experts believe that if Kuryk and Makhachkala succeed in attracting a portion of cargo traffic moving between China and Europe, the geography of cargo flows in the Caspian region could shift, potentially reducing Turkmenbashi’s current competitive advantage.
The development reflects intensifying competition among Caspian ports and underscores the regions growing strategic importance within international transport corridors.
