Pakistan Russia’s worldwide freight train service is expected to initiate its trial operations by March 15, 2025, to boost regional trade with Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia.
The inauguration of this groundbreaking international freight train administration connecting Pakistan to Russia, with preliminary activities booked to start March 15, 2025, aims to strengthen regional trade connectivity with Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia.
The Pakistan Railway Freight Transportation Company (PRFTC), a subsidiary of Pakistan Railways, has contacted the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) looking for containerized freight responsibilities for the upcoming trial run.
In an official letter, PRFTC informed the FPCCI that the freight service would work from Qasim International Container Terminal and Pakistan International Container Terminal, offering transporting choices for 22-ton (T.E.U.) and 44-ton (F.E.U.) containers. The FPCCI has been requested to organize with stakeholders to guarantee freight availability and smooth launch.
Authorities close to the development featured that Taftan station in Pakistan will act as the primary entry point for products along this new trade corridor. Key strategic and customs issues connected with its operation have been almost settled.
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Oil, natural gas, steel and other industrial products would be easier to export from Russia to Pakistan thanks to this train service. For their textile, food, and agricultural products—such as rice, wheat, and cotton—Pakistani exporters will receive improved access to markets in Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia.
The freight service is expected to decrease transportation expenses and travel time, situating Pakistan as a key transit hub in the region.
During the 27th Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum in June 2024, Pakistan and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding, which the initiative builds upon. Establishing a productive and economical commerce route between South Asia, Central Asia, and Russia is the goal of the agreement.
The expanding potential of Pakistan’s textile sector, which has set an ambitious export goal of $50 billion over the next five years, was emphasised by APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad. He praised the government’s contribution to fostering an environment that supports the textile industry and boosts exports and foreign exchange profits.
To cut expenses and delays, he recommended automating cargo delivery and goods processing. In addition, he suggested establishing dry ports along the route, bolstering banking ties with Russia, and establishing a barter trading system between Pakistan and Russia like to the one currently in place between Iran and Pakistan.
APTMA is in favour of the new goods service because it thinks it will greatly increase regional trade and create new business prospects. It is anticipated that the project will improve trade between Pakistan and Central Asia, simplify logistics, and lower transportation costs.