Kazakhstan to build cargo terminal at Iranian port

Kazakhstan plans to build a cargo transshipment terminal at an Iranian port, a move aimed at expanding the country’s export capabilities and strengthening its role in international transport corridors. The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin.

According to Zhumangarin, Iran has agreed to allocate a 15-hectare land plot to Kazakhstan at Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas, located on the northern shore of the Strait of Hormuz. The project is expected to be financed through private investment, while the relevant agreement is currently in its final stage of approval.

The new terminal will provide Kazakhstan with direct access to major maritime trade routes, opening opportunities to increase exports to India, East Africa, the Persian Gulf region, and Southeast Asia. Authorities view the project as an important step toward diversifying export destinations and enhancing the country’s transit potential.

The initiative is part of broader cooperation between Kazakhstan and Iran aimed at developing transport infrastructure and expanding the North–South Transport Corridor. In 2025, freight volumes along the route increased by 12% to 3.5 million tonnes, while rail cargo transportation between the two countries surged by 69%.

The two countries have also agreed to develop a joint roadmap for modernizing transport infrastructure. The planned measures are expected to increase the corridor’s annual capacity to 20 million tonnes. Following the completion of all necessary procedures, the land plot at Shahid Rajaee Port will be officially transferred to Kazakhstan for the implementation of the project.

Tags: Kazakhstan, Iran