The multi-service logistics operator PEC has launched the delivery of groupage cargo between Turkmenistan and Russia along the eastern branch of the North-South ITC. Regular flights depart once every two weeks, and their number will increase next year, logistics.ru. reports.

The company was the first in Russia to begin transporting consolidated cargo for residents and businesses of both countries. According to PEC estimates, Turkmenistan’s transition to international transport documents in electronic form and the launch of regular ferry service between Astrakhan and Turkmenbashi will help speed up and simplify delivery on the route.

“PEC has launched a comprehensive service in the republic, which includes not only transportation to the final recipient, but also assistance in preparing accompanying documents, as well as warehouse logistics,” Anton Buyanov, head of PEC: GLOBAL said.

To process and consolidate cargo, the company opened a partner branch in the capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat. The new site is located 5 km from the international airport and 28 km from the E60 highway, which connects Turkmenistan with Kazakhstan and Russia.

“As previously reported by governor of the Astrakhan region, Igor Babushkin, the Russian region has agreed to resume ferry service with Turkmenistan, when exactly is still unknown,” the head of PEC: GLOBAL. noted. “The launch of regular carriage by sea will help speed up not only delivery between Russia and Turkmenistan, but also transit from other countries in Central Asia and the Middle East along the eastern branch of the North-South ITC. According to preliminary calculations, delivery by ferry from Turkmenbashi to Astrakhan will take 1-2 days, while by road around the Caspian Sea it will take up to 8 days,” he added.

Last year, trade turnover between Russia and Turkmenistan amounted to $865 million, and according to the results of the first quarter of 2023, it increased by 45%, Russian President Vladimir Putin previously reported. Russia plans to increase the export of oil and gas equipment and mechanical products to the republic, and Turkmenistan plans to increase the supply of textiles and food.

Demand for delivery from Turkmenistan is growing, including due to the country’s transit capabilities, the publication notes. Therefore, next year PEC plans to open new sites in the region for processing and consolidating shipments, as well as launch regular transportation between Russia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan via the North-South ITC.

Turkmenistan will become part of a single transit route, which the multi-service logistics operator will open next year. The New Silk Road will pass through Russia, the countries of Central and Southeast Asia.

ORIENT news