Minister of Transport Ilkhom Makhkamov emphasized the need for a boost in maritime cargo transportation within the Caspian Sea region. Speaking at the IV "Tbilisi Silk Road Forum," Makhkamov expressed his interest in the "Midday Corridor" and highlighted the significant increase in freight traffic volume from Uzbekistan along this route, which reached an impressive 1 mn tons in 2022.
To facilitate further growth, Makhkamov proposed expanding the infrastructure capacity in the Caspian Sea. Additionally, he called for the implementation of a flexible tariff policy along the entire "Midway Corridor" to enhance competitiveness. Accelerating the digitalization of customs clearance processes and documentation was also highlighted as a priority for streamlining operations.
During the June summit "Central Asia - European Union," President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of developing the "Midden Route" or Trans-Caspian Transit Corridor. He voiced concerns over the lack of a coordinated approach to this vital transportation artery, noting that tariffs and fees along this route are one and a half times higher compared to alternative North-South routes.
Minister Makhkamov's call for increased sea cargo transportation and the application of flexible tariffs aims to promote trade efficiency and foster regional connectivity along the Caspian Sea, contributing to the development of international trade routes.
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