TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS POTENTIAL OF THE DRY PORT OF SEZ “KHORGOS – EASTERN GATE” AND ITS ROLE IN THE TRANSIT SYSTEM OF KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

The article examines the transport and logistics potential of the dry port within the Khorgos–Eastern Gate Special Economic Zone and its role in Kazakhstan’s transit system. The study aims to assess the port’s infrastructure capacity, container traffic dynamics, and key factors affecting its further development. Statistical, comparative, economic-geographical, systems, and SWOT analysis methods were applied. Container handling increased from 136 thousand TEU in 2018 to more than 372 thousand TEU in 2025, representing an increase of approximately 173.5%. In 2025, approximately 68.9% of the port’s design capacity of 540 thousand TEU per year was utilized. The main advantages of the dry port include its strategic geographical location, the interface between railway systems with different track gauges, its SEZ status, and its links to international transport routes. Further development requires infrastructure improvement, digitalization of logistics and customs processes, and diversification of international transport routes.