Inclusion of Aktau and Kuryk Ports in Seaport Aktau Special Economic Zone
Kazakhstan Expands Seaport Aktau Special Economic Zone
In an effort to enhance Kazakhstan’s transport and logistics potential, the ports of Aktau, Kuryk, and the Bautino cargo area have been incorporated into the Seaport Aktau special economic zone (SEZ). This move, authorized by a presidential decree, aims to attract investment in the Mangystau Region and create one of the world’s largest international transport corridors in collaboration with leading logistics companies.
The inclusion of these ports within the SEZ will provide a range of benefits to investors. Projects such as the construction of a container hub at the Aktau port by the end of 2025 and the modernization of port facilities with advanced transshipment units will be accelerated. These developments are expected to significantly improve transportation capabilities and facilitate trade operations.
The Aktau port already plays a vital role as an international transport corridor hub, accounting for 40% of total transportation traffic on the Caspian Sea. With its six oil docks capable of handling 12 million tons annually, the port facilitates the transportation of dry cargo, oil, and crude oil to Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, and Turkmenistan. This strategic location has allowed Kazakhstan to establish itself as a crucial link in international trade networks.
Meanwhile, the Kuryk port, equipped with four docks, specializes in exporting oil, metals, and chemicals to Baku. The port director, Serik Akhmetov, explained that some cargoes are even shipped further to Europe through the Black Sea. Additionally, products manufactured in Belarus, Italy, and Russia are transported to various regions within Kazakhstan.
Notably, the geopolitical situation has driven a surge in cargo transportation through the Kuryk port, with figures doubling to over 550,000 tons this year. In response to this growing demand, plans are already underway to construct another harbor dedicated to transporting heavy cargo and containers. By 2024, the port aims to receive Kazakhstan’s ferries, enabling the opening of new routes with ports in Iran and Russia.
The expansion of the Seaport Aktau special economic zone signifies Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening its role as a key player in the global transport and logistics industry. With improved infrastructure and increased investment opportunities, the country aims to attract more international businesses and drive economic growth.
