Demand for export freight transportation from Uzbekistan increased by 48% in 2024, while transportation costs rose by 6%, reports Uz Daily, citing data from the "ATI.SU Freight Exchange."
According to the agency, most export shipments were directed to Russia (+56%). Freight volumes also increased to Belarus (+85%) and Kazakhstan (+67%). More intensive growth was observed in the second half of the year: +71% in the third quarter and +110% in the fourth quarter.
The volume of import shipments to Uzbekistan remained at the 2023 level. However, there was a decline in demand for cargo deliveries from Russia (-10%). The 4% drop in imports was offset by increased demand for shipments from Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, as well as heightened activity in the fourth quarter (+23%). Domestic transportation within Uzbekistan also grew by 66%.
Farid Vakhidov, Director of ATI.SU's representative office in Uzbekistan, explained that the growth in exports from the republic is linked to new U.S. restrictions against Russia, introduced in June 2024. Due to sanctions, exporting countries have to seek alternative routes. The increase in transportation from Uzbekistan was driven by both transit and actual exports.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
January 29, 2025