Kazakhstan is reinforcing its position as a key logistics hub between Asia and Europe. International logistics provider Rhenus Group has launched its first fully owned intermodal rail terminal in Kazakhstan, marking a major milestone in the company’s regional expansion and in the development of the Trans-Caspian transport corridor, DKNews.kz reports.
The new facility, located in the Almaty region, is designed to support growing container flows between China, Central Asia and Europe, at a time when global supply chains are becoming more regionalized and flexible.
A strategic terminal near Almaty
The terminal is located at Bayserke railway station, close to Almaty, and operates under the name QAZContargo Almaty Ltd. Thanks to its direct connection to both national and international rail networks, the site enables efficient handling of import, export and transit cargo.
Operational management is carried out by Contargo Group, a long-standing partner of Rhenus with extensive experience in international container logistics. This allows the terminal to be seamlessly integrated into established logistics routes and multimodal solutions.
Built for containers, block trains and multimodal solutions
The terminal focuses on container handling and block train operations. Its infrastructure includes container depot services, bonded storage facilities, an open bonded yard, and rail-based transshipment solutions.
One of its key advantages is the ability to transfer bulk cargo from rail wagons into containers, significantly increasing flexibility for multimodal transport within Central Asia and along the Trans-Caspian route. This capability is especially relevant as shippers seek alternative corridors and more resilient logistics options.
From forwarding to infrastructure ownership
Rhenus has been active in Kazakhstan for nearly three decades, operating offices in Almaty, Astana and Karaganda and providing a wide range of freight forwarding and logistics services. The launch of its own terminal represents a strategic shift — from traditional forwarding toward integrated logistics solutions supported by proprietary infrastructure.
With the addition of the Almaty terminal, Rhenus now operates its second container terminal in Central Asia, following the launch of a joint rail-connected terminal project in Uzbekistan in 2025. This expansion further strengthens Kazakhstan’s role as a vital logistics gateway in Eurasian trade.
Responding to a changing logistics landscape
As supply chains continue to transform, demand for inland rail terminals and intermodal solutions is growing rapidly. Companies are increasingly looking for routes that offer flexibility, reliability and reduced dependency on single corridors.
The opening of Rhenus’ first own terminal in Kazakhstan reflects this shift. It also signals long-term confidence in the country’s transit potential and its strategic location between major global markets.
Why this matters for Kazakhstan
Experts note that investments of this kind go beyond individual projects. They contribute to the development of national logistics infrastructure, attract international players, and strengthen Kazakhstan’s competitiveness as a transit country.
The launch of the QAZContargo terminal near Almaty confirms that the Trans-Caspian route is no longer just an alternative — it is becoming a central axis of Eurasian logistics, with Kazakhstan playing a pivotal role in its growth.
