Kazakhstan is moving forward with plans to build a cargo transshipment terminal at Iran’s Port of Shahid Rajaee in Bandar Abbas, a project designed to unlock new export opportunities across South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Gulf region, and East Africa.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin announced that the facility will be developed on a 15-hectare site and financed entirely through private investment. Negotiations are in their final stage, with lease terms already agreed upon, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

The new terminal is expected to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position in international trade by providing direct access to some of the world’s fastest-growing markets through the Persian Gulf.

Zhumangarin noted that Kazakhstan already has a railway connection running from Aktau through Turkmenistan and Iran, linking the country to Bandar Abbas, one of the region’s largest ports. The route passes through the Etrek and Serakhs border crossings before reaching the Gulf coast.

Once operational, the logistics hub will help Kazakh exporters reach major markets in India, Southeast Asia, the Gulf countries, and East Africa more efficiently.

The minister also said Kazakhstan expects progress on restrictions affecting the import and transit of certain goods through Iran, including metals, transformers, and other energy-related products. A final agreement will facilitate both exports to Iran and transit shipments to third-country markets.

At the same time, Kazakhstan is exploring alternative transport corridors to reduce geopolitical risks. One option under consideration is a railway route through Afghanistan with access to Pakistan’s deep-water ports.

Zhumangarin said that the route could provide an additional strategic advantage by bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that construction of the railway connection to Iran’s Port of Chabahar is nearing completion, creating another potential gateway for regional trade.