In Kazakhstan’s Mangystau Region, two major border checkpoints – Tazhen and Temir Baba – are undergoing large-scale modernization. But this is more than just construction, DKNews.kz reports. It’s about building a faster, smarter, and more efficient border system that meets the demands of modern trade and international transit.
The initiative is part of a comprehensive national strategy led by the Ministry of Finance in response to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s policy vision outlined in the State of the Nation Address “A Just Kazakhstan: Law and Order, Economic Growth, and Public Optimism”, and in line with direct instructions from Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov. Kazakhstan is actively transforming its border infrastructure to facilitate trade, support economic growth, and boost its status as a regional logistics hub.
Why Mangystau Matters
Kazakhstan’s geographical location gives it tremendous potential as a transit bridge between East and West. The Mangystau Region, in particular, sits at a critical intersection – connecting Central Asia with both Russia and Europe to the north, and with Turkey, the Gulf, and South Asia to the south.
Following the successful launch of four modern checkpoints on the borders with China and Uzbekistan, the focus has now shifted to Mangystau – where Tazhen and Temir Baba serve as strategic gateways for both regional and intercontinental trade.
Temir Baba – A Southern Gateway to Global Markets
Temir Baba is Kazakhstan’s only road border crossing with Turkmenistan, making it a crucial access point for international freight. From this checkpoint, foreign carriers can reach destinations such as Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, the UAE, and beyond via Turkmenistan’s territory.
The checkpoint handles a significant volume of goods and food products originating from Europe en route to these countries. In return, consumer goods and specialized equipment for the oil and gas industry are imported from Turkey into Kazakhstan. Fresh produce from Turkmenistan and Pakistan also enters Mangystau through this route, supplying local markets.
Tazhen – Linking Central Asia to Russia and Europe
Located on Kazakhstan’s border with Uzbekistan, Tazhen is the only road checkpoint in western Kazakhstan that connects Central Asia to Russia and Europe. Roughly 90% of traffic through Tazhen consists of transit cargo headed for Russia and third countries, including EU member states. Additionally, this route is a key corridor for labor migrants from Uzbekistan traveling to Russia.
Construction Without Disruption
Despite active reconstruction on-site, both checkpoints remain fully operational. Ongoing works include the expansion of traffic lanes, installation of advanced inspection systems, automated weighing stations, and digital monitoring technologies. These upgrades aim to streamline procedures, reduce wait times, and improve overall efficiency and security.
During a working trip to the region, Chief of Staff at the Ministry of Finance Ernar Erzhanov visited both checkpoints with senior officials from the State Revenue Committee. Following the inspection, he emphasized that strict oversight will continue until every aspect of the modernization process is complete.
Accountability and Acceleration
The site visit also revealed operational shortcomings at both checkpoints. As a result, contractors were instructed to scale up manpower and equipment immediately to accelerate construction timelines. The State Revenue Committee was directed to consider disciplinary action against the heads of the Tazhen and Temir Baba customs posts for the deficiencies uncovered.
Toward a Digital Border System
This project goes beyond infrastructure – it represents a shift in how Kazakhstan manages its borders. The goal is a digital, transparent, and business-friendly customs experience. When fully implemented, these modern checkpoints will significantly increase cargo capacity, enhance service quality, and improve Kazakhstan’s competitiveness in global supply chains.
As the country positions itself as a central logistics hub in Eurasia, streamlined and upgraded border crossings like Tazhen and Temir Baba will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of trade across the region.
