KTZ builds maritime fleet for Middle Corridor

Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) has initiated the construction of its own maritime fleet to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position within the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor. As part of this initiative, the subsidiary KTZ Express Shipping LLP has signed contracts for the construction of six multipurpose bulk and container ships. The agreements were made with Jiangsu Haizhongzhou Shipping Industry Co., Ltd. for the construction of four ships and with Baku Shipyard LLC for two additional ships.

Strengthening maritime infrastructure

The project aims to establish a sustainable maritime component within the Middle Corridor. The new ships will be built in the „River-Sea“ class and will have a carrying capacity of up to 9,900 tons as well as a capacity of up to 537 TEU. These specifications are designed to optimize operations on routes across the Caspian and Black Seas. This will ensure efficient integration of the maritime segment into the unified logistics chain of the Middle Corridor.

The ships will be equipped with modern navigation and control systems that comply with international standards and environmental regulations, including the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and MARPOL regulations. Classification services will be provided by Bureau Veritas to ensure high safety, reliability, and environmental standards. This is also intended to increase operational flexibility on international routes and strengthen the confidence of global shippers.

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