Overview
In the current geo-political situation the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC) represents a valid land alternative of transport between Europe and Asia. It has the potential to handle more trade, unlocking new economic opportunities for both regions (including, for example, the trade and transport of critical raw materials).
The TCTC aims at establishing a modern, competitive and efficient route connecting Europe and Asia in no more than 15 days, while also ensuring improved connectivity and cooperation, as well as economic growth between Central Asian countries in a networked approach.
The development of the corridor is a good example of how Global Gateway investments are mutually beneficial – by developing hard infrastructure (rail, roads, ports, logistics centres) as well as the enabling environment (e.g. digitalisation, trade facilitation, interoperability).
Background
The Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor is at the centre of a growing strategic partnership between the EU and countries across Central Asia and the Southern Caucasus. Together, we are working to safeguard supply chains, boost regional economic development, and enhance intercontinental connectivity under the Global Gateway strategy.
The focus is to develop and modernise both hard infrastructure—such as roads, railways, ports, and logistics hubs—and soft connectivity measures, including digitalisation, regulatory alignment, and trade facilitation.
The corridor is expected to deliver:
- 50% reduction in freight transit time
- Up to 3 times increase in trade flows by 2030, according to World Bank modelling
- Investing opportunities to develop hard infrastructure (exisiting new routes, links and ports) and work on soft connectivity measures (trade facilitation, regulatory measures and digitalisation)
- Regional integration by connecting local markets and people with services.
