China–Central Asia trains: 68 fixed routes and 40% growth on the Middle Corridor
China’s new rail timetable took effect on 10 October: China–Central Asia routes reached 68, with Zhengzhou–Khorgos added. Azerbaijan received 416 block trains from China in nine months.
China’s railways switched to a new freight timetable on 10 October. At the same time, volumes keep growing on the Middle Corridor and through Kazakhstan. Here are the numbers that matter for anyone shipping from China to Central Asia.
New timetable: 68 China–Central Asia routes
Under the new timetable, the number of fixed China–Central Asia routes has reached 68. New additions include Zhengzhou–Khorgos, a direct service from central China to the Kazakh border.
On China–Europe, 96 fixed routes are in operation, with two new return routes: Alashankou–Yulin and Erenhot–Jinan. Across the network, almost 24,000 freight services are scheduled.
New rules: three years to file a claim
Under China’s railway freight regulations in force since 1 October, the window for compensation or refund claims has been extended from six months to three years. For perishable goods, the allowed delay beyond the maximum delivery time has been cut from three days to two.
Middle Corridor: 40% more trains via Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan Railways received 416 block trains from China in January–September 2026, 40% more than a year earlier. The route runs through Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan and Georgia on to Türkiye and Europe.
Kazakhstan: 18.7 million tonnes and a third border crossing
According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport, rail freight between Kazakhstan and China reached 18.7 million tonnes in the first half of 2026, up 9%. The 303 km Bakhty–Ayagoz railway under construction will open a third rail crossing between the two countries, with capacity for 25 million tonnes a year.
Takeaway for importers into Uzbekistan
More fixed routes mean steadier schedules and easier access to containers. But as volumes grow, queues at Khorgos and Alashankou can lengthen, especially in the year-end peak. Plan shipments early and consolidate cargo near the border.
Buraq Logistics consolidates cargo at its own warehouse in Khorgos and ships it to Uzbekistan by rail and road. We will work out the fastest and most cost-effective route for your cargo.
Sources: China Travel and Transport (26 Oct 2026), Azernews (11 Oct 2026), Trend / Kazakhstan Ministry of Transport (18 Sep 2026).