A large-scale dredging project is underway at the Port of Aktau, aimed at enhancing navigation safety and increasing the throughput capacity of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR). China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. is serving as the general contractor and has already completed the geodetic surveys and data processing required for the subsequent phases of work.
During the preparatory stage, the contractor is mobilizing its specialized dredging fleet and equipment. Concurrently, construction of the containment dike for the reclamation area is proceeding; to date, 680 meters of the planned 785 meters have been filled. The main dredging phase is scheduled to begin in the second half of July, with the entire project slated for completion by the end of 2026.
Upon completion, the navigable draft within the port area will increase to 6–7 meters, enabling vessels to enter with heavier loads and improving cargo handling efficiency. This project marks a significant step in the development of the TITR, which aims to increase its throughput capacity from 6 million to 10 million tons by 2028. Notably, container shipping volumes along the China–Europe route via this corridor grew by 30% in the first five months of 2026 alone.