Rail freight volumes between China and Kazakhstan reach record high

Rail freight volumes between China and Kazakhstan have reached a new record in 2023. Volumes grew by 22 per cent in comparison to the previous year. In total, volumes amounted to 28 million tonnes. Representatives of Chinese and Kazakh rail operators presented the new rail freight numbers at a meeting in the Chinese province of […]

EU to invest 10 billion euros in Middle Corridor

The European Union is allocating 10 billion euros for the development of the so-called Middle Corridor. It has identified 33 infrastructure projects to be financed, among which are many rail projects. The EU hopes to create an alternative transport route that circumvents Russian infrastructure. The currently allocated 10 billion euros will be spent on infrastructure […]

Kazakhstan sees record rail freight turnover for the third time in a row

Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ) has achieved a record annual rail freight turnover for the third year in a row. In 2023, turnover grew by seven per cent to 269 billion tonne-kilometres in comparison with the previous year. This growth can partially be attributed to higher transit volumes, in particular to and from China. According to Kanat […]

China seeks speedy deliveries and tests high-speed rail freight

China has started a pilot program for a high-speed rail freight line. The pilot programme runs between the cities of Chongqing and Zhengzhou in central China. The line reportedly saves a day in transport times in comparison with road transportation. Chongqing is an international rail hub for which ambitions go beyond this piloted high-speed line. […]

Why is the U.S. gaining momentum in financing African railway projects?

The discussion regarding increasing rail competition between the U.S. and China in Africa is not new. Recent months have seen the unfolding of U.S.-led initiatives to finance and develop railway projects of great freight significance in the continent. At the same time, Chinese investments that have been a staple in the region for years seem […]