Political scientist Eduard Poletaev shared his opinion on the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), emphasizing its role as an alternative to the land route “China – Europe”. In the current geopolitical situation, countries understand the importance of diversifying logistics routes and partners. Kazakhstan, according to him, is actively developing its transport infrastructure, seeking to increase transit revenues.
Poletaev noted that the successful development of the TITR requires government support and investment, as well as the creation of a solid legal framework. He named insufficient infrastructure, such as the underdeveloped ports of Aktau and Kuryk, as well as the difficulties of customs clearance, which slow down the movement of goods, as one of the main problems of the route.
According to the expert, the politicization of the project works to its advantage. Kazakhstan uses the TITR as a way to strengthen its position in the international arena, especially in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. In turn, Europe is interested in an alternative route for trade with Asia, especially with China.
The EU, which plans to invest 10 billion euros, and China, which sees the TMTR as an opportunity to develop its western regions, are also showing interest in the route. Poletaev emphasized that the success of the project depends on cooperation with Central Asian countries, which can offer their export goods for transportation. The expert also called for improving the infrastructure and digitalization of the route to increase the transparency, stability and predictability of deliveries. In his opinion, even if transit via the TMTR is more expensive, reliability should become a priority for global trade.