Putin, Tokayev to Tackle Border Truck Jams, Illegal Imports

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the long truck lines on the Russia-Kazakhstan border were caused by a large-scale crackdown on illegal imports.

Speaking at a press conference after his visit to Kyrgyzstan, he revealed that customs authorities began random roadside checks following his instructions, The Caspian Post informs via Russian media.

Putin said that these inspections uncovered a “significant amount” of cargo entering Russia without any required documentation. “It’s simply illegal imports,” he said.

Despite Russia and Kazakhstan sharing a common customs area and an open market, each truck must still carry an agreed set of documents-including details of the cargo, the recipient, and taxes or duties owed.

Putin said he discussed the issue with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and both sides agreed to coordinate efforts against illegal imports. Customs authorities will now process the backlog by ensuring goods are properly declared and final recipients identified.

The Russian president expressed confidence that the border congestion could be resolved by the end of the year, clearing the way for trucks waiting to enter the Russian Federation.