Kazakhstan, China Start Round-the-Clock Smart Cargo Transit

Kazakhstan and China have officially launched unmanned cargo transportation at the Bakhty-Pokitu border crossing, marking a major milestone in cross-border trade innovation under the joint Smart Customs pilot project.

The initiative, announced by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Finance, is designed to streamline and modernize customs and logistics procedures through advanced digital technologies, The Caspian Post reports, citing Kazakh media.

As part of the rollout, both countries signed a cooperation agreement aimed at jointly implementing the project, coordinating operational efforts, and sharing expertise in customs digitization.

At the heart of the project is a next-generation Smart Customs system, which introduces autonomous vehicles to transport goods across the border without human drivers. These self-driving cargo units will operate continuously, improving efficiency, reducing delays, and lowering costs.

One of the project’s most transformative features is the introduction of a single electronic declaration system recognized by both countries. This fully digital infrastructure will manage all documentation and cargo handling, supported by automated navigation and real-time monitoring technologies to ensure 24/7 operations with minimal human involvement.

Officials estimate that the initiative will enable cargo volumes to reach up to 10 million tons annually, while significantly reducing customs clearance times, cutting transportation expenses, and enhancing the security and transparency of logistics chains.

Beyond efficiency gains, the unmanned system is expected to ease pressure on existing road infrastructure, contribute to the development of logistics hubs, and boost exports of agricultural and processed goods, including grain, oilseeds, meat, and other commodities.