The Southern corridor, a key branch of the east-west trade route, is demonstrating its efficiency and growing importance with recent road transport operations between China and Armenia, according to IRU. A 20-day journey from Shanghai to Yerevan has set a benchmark for streamlined connectivity.
Goods were transported by road under the TIR system, departing Shanghai and arriving in Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, in just 20 days. The journey, managed by logistics company Gold Way, traversed five countries: China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran.
The truck exited China via the Khorgas border crossing into Kazakhstan. This seamless route significantly outperformed sea transport timelines, which range from 35-45 days via the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas and 60-70 days through Georgia's Poti port. Following this success, a second truck embarked on the same journey, this time using the China-Kazakhstan Alashankou border crossing.
Amid evolving geopolitical dynamics, the Southern Corridor is becoming a critical artery for trade between China, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe. Unlike the Middle Corridor, which requires transshipment across the Caspian Sea, the Southern Corridor allows for uninterrupted, door-to-door transport, providing greater efficiency.
Freight activity along this route has surged. From 2020 to 2023, transport volumes by Turkish operators to Central Asian countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan increased by an average of 44%, while non-Turkish operators saw an 86% rise in volumes.
Central to the success of these operations is the TIR system, which allows goods to travel in sealed compartments under customs control, simplifying border procedures. By reducing waiting times and administrative hurdles, the TIR system delivers transport options that are up to 80% faster and 50% cheaper.
As the TIR system celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2024, it now connects China with over 30 countries across Eurasia, reinforcing its pivotal role in enhancing trade and logistics efficiency.
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