Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and China activate new overland trade route

The first pilot truck caravan to test the overland trade route from Uzbekistan through Kyrgyzstan to China sets off from Tashkent today, ahead of the upcoming implementation of the TIR system in China.

The caravan, travelling along a route from Tashkent-Andizhan-Osh-Irkeshtam and arriving in Kashghar later this week, is an important step in reinforcing the benefits that TIR will bring to this trade corridor, including spurring investment and economic growth for the communities along the route and beyond.

The only global customs transit system, TIR is already operational in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as across Central Asia and Europe.

China’s recent ratification of the UN TIR Convention will significantly increase the potential volume of international trade in the region and provide new benefits for landlocked Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.

Increased collaboration and information exchange between China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on customs, administration, transport and technical needs will further the development of the necessary harmonisation of transport regulations and processes that IRU has long championed to improve mobility, trade and economic growth.

Organised by Uzbek, Kyrgyz and Chinese transport ministries and supported by IRU, the caravan is being celebrated today at a launch ceremony hosted by senior governmental officials of the three countries.