Turkmenistan is reinforcing its position as one of the most competitive and economically efficient links of the “North–South” transport corridor. With modern infrastructure, including the Turkmenbashi port and key railway hubs, as well as favorable tariffs, the route through the country is becoming a priority for carriers, Turkmenportal.com reports.
Russian logistics and transport experts have also highlighted the advantages of the Turkmen direction. According to the Russian outlet PortNews, Alexander Sharov, CEO of LLC Neftekhimtrans, stated during the 11th “TransLogistika St. Petersburg” conference (September 30 – October 1) that the railway route along the “North–South” corridor through Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan is more profitable for carriers than alternative options.
The expert emphasized that this conclusion is based on specific economic indicators and tariffs, describing the rates as “very attractive” and widely used in the market. This assessment directly confirms the success of Turkmenistan’s investments in developing its transport system.
The competitive advantage of the route through Turkmenistan is gaining particular relevance amid the expansion of international trade. The implementation of the free trade agreement between the EAEU and Iran further boosts the importance of this direction: trade turnover between Iran and the EAEU has already grown by 16% since early 2025, and in the medium term, it is expected to double, reaching $12 billion.
Thus, Turkmenistan is emerging not only as the most optimal but also as an indispensable link in this strategic corridor, ensuring Eurasia an accelerated and economically justified access to Iranian ports and, beyond them, to the waters of the Indian Ocean.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
October 3, 2025