China-to-Russia Shipments Are Increasingly Bypassing Kazakhstan
Photo: Elements.envato.com
Freight shipments from China to Russia are increasingly bypassing Kazakhstan, amid tighter customs inspections and long queues at border checkpoints, Orda.kz reports, citing Lenta.ru
In late 2025 and early 2026, crossing times for freight carriers at checkpoints nearly tripled due to lengthy queues and temporary border closures. Consequently, some of the freight traffic previously travelling through Kazakhstan is now opting for longer logistics routes.
Market participants cite strict inspections, seasonal congestion and unpredictable border procedures as the main causes of delays.
It should also be noted that transit through Kazakhstan has become less predictable due to intensified screening. Cargo can be held at the border for weeks, which increases the final delivery cost and encourages businesses to look for alternative routes.
Although the situation improved slightly in early 2026, carriers continue to face difficulties. Kazakhstan, China and Russia have maintained enhanced import control measures. Kazakhstan, in particular, continues to scrutinise shipments of clothing, footwear, electronics, and dual-use goods.
It is worth noting that in September 2025, queues of trucks began to build up at Kazakhstan’s borders with China and Russia. After the temporary closure of crossings on the China—Kazakhstan border, the scale of the problem increased further.
Latest news
- Statistics Show Where the Most Women Live and Work in Kazakhstan
- Kazakhstan Carries Out 12 Evacuation Flights From the Middle East
- Kazakhstan Labor Inspectors Find Wage Arrears at 102 Enterprises
- Police Raid in Shymkent Uncovers Widespread Violations Involving Foreign Nationals
- Tokayev Condemns Drone Strike on Nakhchivan Airport
- Eyewitnesses Share Photos of Kazakh Citizens’ Evacuation
- Tokayev Orders Tighter Security for Kazakhstan’s Critical Infrastructure
- Semey Teen Convicted Over Telegram Chat Targeting Foreign Students
- Gender Equality Index 2025: Is Kazakhstan Leading in the Region?
- UNICEF Highlights Children’s Digital Rights in Draft Constitution of Kazakhstan
- Kazakhstani Journalists Returning From Ukraine Detained at Astana Airport
- Kazakhstan Prosecutor Opposes Deportation of 16-Year-Old Russian Teen
- Russian TV Channels Taken Off Air in Kazakhstan
- Mistaken Claim? Kazakhstan Denies $1B Contribution to the Board of Peace
- How many Kazakhstanis remain in the Middle East — MFA
- Kazhydromet Warns of High Flood Risk in Five Regions in 2026
- MP Calls for Prosecutor Review of Kazakhstanis’ Dubai Property
- Kazakhstan Moves to Legalize Private Detective Work
- Kazakhstan to Extend Gas Export Ban for Six More Months
- Majilis MP Calls to Soften Liability for Kazakhstanis Drawn into Foreign Wars for Pay
