Uzbekistan is considering a major step into maritime logistics that could reshape trade routes across the Caspian region.

The country is exploring options to either lease or purchase ferries to establish its own cargo ferry system across the Caspian Sea, as part of efforts to strengthen export and import capacity, The Caspian Post reports via Anhor.uz.

The initiative was confirmed by acting Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade Shokhrukh Gulamov, who said the country has not abandoned plans to build its own ferry fleet and is actively reviewing possible models.

The move comes amid growing trade volumes and rising demand for more efficient transport corridors linking Central Asia with global markets.

Previously, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport was tasked with studying ferry leasing and acquisition options in cooperation with regional partners including Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan.

However, officials note that such projects take time - ship construction alone is typically planned 5-7 years in advance. Work is currently underway with international consultants and domestic transport companies to design a workable model, whether based on owned or leased vessels.

The proposed ferries would be used to transport Uzbek goods through key ports in neighboring countries, including Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, improving access to international shipping routes.