Kazakhstan to Acquire 300 American Locomotives in Major Trade Deal

Kazakhstan has signed agreements worth approximately $4.2 billion with U.S. company Wabtec to acquire 300 American freight locomotives.

The deal was formalized during a signing ceremony held in the presence of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, The Caspian Post reports, citing Kazakh media.

The event took place as part of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s working visit to the United States.

The documents provide for the delivery of 300 freight locomotives with enhanced specifications to Kazakhstan, as well as associated maintenance services.

A recognized global leader in transportation technology, the company is a key partner in the modernization of Kazakhstan's railway industry.

The Wabtec Kazakhstan locomotive assembly plant has been successfully operating in Astana since 2009. Over this period, the company has invested more than $230 million. Since its launch, the plant has produced over 600 locomotives for Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) and for export. The level of production localization has reached 45%.

In July 2024, Wabtec opened a new technology and engineering center in Kazakhstan, which has become a hub for innovation and professional training.

As part of his visit to New York, Tokayev held talks with U.S. President Donald Trump.