The establishment of transport and logistics hubs as a strategic pillar of Kazakhstan’s economic development

Abstract

Kazakhstan's strategic geographical location provides favorable conditions for developing transport and logistics hubs and strengthening the country's transit potential. This study aims to assess the economic significance of transport and logistics hub development, analyze current transport infrastructure trends, and identify key directions for improving transport system efficiency. The research is based on official statistical data published by the Bureau of National Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2020–2024. Descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, dynamic analysis, and a systems approach were applied to evaluate transport infrastructure and transportation performance. The results demonstrate stable growth in railway and pipeline transport, a significant increase in road freight transportation, and a decline in inland waterway infrastructure. The analysis also revealed insufficient integration among transport modes, uneven logistics infrastructure development, and a low level of digitalization. The findings indicate that the development of transport and logistics hubs, wider implementation of digital technologies, and expansion of multimodal transport are essential for improving transport system efficiency, strengthening Kazakhstan's transit potential, reducing logistics costs, and supporting sustainable economic development.