Altynbek Akylbekov, Deputy Head of the Branch and Head of Logistics in Kazakhstan and Central Asia of DB Cargo Eurasia, presented the company’s main achievements, which include the first transit shipments along the Silk Road between China and Europe, as well as the formation of key routes such as Chuntsun-Duisburg. They organized these transportations jointly with Chinese, Russian, Kazakh and German railways, and their experience and development history began to take shape back in 2008.
Today, their container trains provide a wide range of services, connecting China with Europe and Central Asia. DB Cargo is considering the possibility of expanding routes and deepening cooperation not only with China and Europe, but also with other countries in the region. Their presence in Central Asia is new but is already showing significant successes, such as partnering with Nur Zhol Company to develop this market.
Altynbek Akylbekov noted that the seven-party railway agreement, signed between 2008 and 2014, continues to function successfully. Since October 2022, we have successfully launched and are increasing the number of premium class trains that travel in 10 to 12 days from China to Europe. For example, in Kazakhstan, a train travels in 52 hours, including all stages of transportation and customs procedures, thanks to the efforts of colleagues from KTZ.
“In addition, our company DB Cargo Eurasia is actively developing routes between Europe and Central Asia, working closely with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia and other countries in the region. We strive to become key players in the rail transportation market, and our successes speak for themselves.
We also continue to expand our rail transport ambitions, particularly in the context of routes from China to Central Asia. We intend to launch both container and public trains, similar to our successful China-Europe-China projects. If suppliers and customers demonstrate sufficient demand, we are ready to launch new routes, including transit to China,” said Altynbek Akylbekov.
Also, their Eurasian corridor guarantees stability and safety of transportation. Trains along the route are continuously guarded and monitored around the clock, covering about 800 kilometers per day. DB Cargo actively monitors customs procedures and promptly informs its customers of possible restrictions, providing alternative routes such as the Middle Corridor to avoid unexpected delays.
Rail transportation today remains the most optimal solution, especially in the context of geopolitical changes. While air freight can be expensive but faster, sister company DB Schenker is here to provide support.
DB Cargo maintains partnerships and actively communicates with its partners and customers, striving to provide a high level of service and efficiency at all stages of transportation.