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Eurasian Logistics Rebound: Rail Surges, Air Links Restored

  • Mar 25
  • 2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago


🚨 Market Signal

Rail freight growth, restored air connectivity, and strengthening corridor operations are shaping a more stable and resilient Eurasian logistics landscape.


China–Europe rail volumes are accelerating alongside expanding trade flows, reinforcing the role of overland transport as a reliable backbone for intercontinental supply chains. At the same time, the resumption of key aviation routes between Central Asia and the Middle East is supporting the recovery of air cargo capacity and improving regional connectivity.


In this edition, we explore how rail expansion and renewed air links are enhancing reliability, restoring capacity, and strengthening Central Asia’s position in Asia–Europe logistics networks.


China–Europe Rail Freight Volumes Rise Sharply in Early 2026

China–Europe Railway Express services recorded strong growth in the first two months of 2026, with 3,501 trains operated and 352,000 TEU transported, reflecting rising demand for overland logistics between China and Europe. The increase comes alongside expanding trade volumes and improved operational coordination across the network.


  • Rail volumes grew 25% year-on-year, while train movements increased 32%, indicating accelerating corridor utilization

  • China–EU trade reached CNY 998.9 billion (+19.9%), reinforcing demand for stable freight connectivity

  • Improved scheduling and high-frequency departures, every 30 minutes or less, are enhancing reliability across the network


China–Europe Rail Freight Surges as Middle East Disruptions Shift Cargo Flows

China–Europe rail freight recorded strong growth in early 2026, as disruptions in maritime and air routes linked to the Middle East conflict redirected cargo toward overland corridors. In January–February, the network operated 3,501 trains (+31.7% YoY), transporting over 352,000 TEU (+25.2%), highlighting rail’s growing role as a stable alternative in Eurasian supply chains.


  • Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and regional airspace are pushing shippers toward rail as a more reliable option

  • Rail offers a mid-cost, mid-speed solution, significantly faster than sea and more affordable than air freight

  • Key hubs like Horgos are scaling operations, with throughput efficiency improving by over 20% amid rising demand


China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan Railway Targets Launch by 2030

The planned China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway is expected to become operational by 2030, according to Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov. The project is designed to transform Kyrgyzstan into a key transit country and strengthen overland connectivity between China and Europe via Central Asia.


  • 532.5 km railway, under construction since 2023, will connect China directly with Uzbekistan through Kyrgyzstan

  • The corridor is expected to reduce transit times and open new freight routes across Eurasia

  • The project will shift Kyrgyzstan from a landlocked endpoint to a strategic transit hub within China–Europe supply chains



Uzbekistan Airways Resumes Tashkent–Dubai Flights

Uzbekistan Airways has resumed regular passenger and cargo flights on the Tashkent–Dubai route starting March 19, 2026, restoring a key aviation link between Central Asia and the Middle East after temporary suspensions due to regional tensions.


  • Daily flights reconnect Uzbekistan with a major regional aviation and cargo hub in Dubai

  • The route supports recovery of air cargo capacity following recent Middle East disruptions

  • Restored connectivity strengthens Uzbekistan’s role in regional aviation and transit logistics networks



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