Azerbaijani Envoy: North-South ITC freight corridor set to handle 30 million tonnes annually

The freight traffic along the western branch of the North-South International Transport Corridor (ITC), which enables direct transportation between Russia, Azerbaijan, and Iran, can reach 30 million tonnes in the future.

Initial volumes are expected to be 5 million tonnes, with a target of at least 15 million tonnes annually during the second phase, said Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Russia, Rahman Mustafayev, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

“The agreement on cooperation for the development of freight transit along the North-South ITC, which we recently signed with the Russian side, is a historic document. It defines the terms of cooperation between our two countries for developing railway infrastructure and transit freight," Mustafayev said.

According to the ambassador, it aims to enhance transport efficiency and increase the potential of the western route of the North-South ITC.

Mustafayev noted that, under the agreement, Azerbaijan will modernize its railway infrastructure and enhance the capacity of its rail border crossings during the first phase, which is to be completed no later than December 31, 2027.

“Once these upgrades are complete, the Russian side is expected to ensure a transit freight volume of no less than 5 million tonnes to Iran. With a committed approach from all parties, freight volumes could increase to 15 million tonnes and even up to 30 million tonnes. This would guarantee that the project becomes a strong driver of regional cooperation, partnership, and stability,” Mustafayev noted.

In December, the Russian government approved a draft agreement between Moscow and Baku on the joint development of transit freight along the North-South ITC. The document outlines its goal as “enhancing transport efficiency and increasing the potential of the western route of the North-South ITC.”

Russia and Azerbaijan have committed to ensuring the free movement of goods across their territories for transit, in compliance with the agreement’s requirements and the legislation of both countries.

The document also specifies the guaranteed freight volume to be transported from Russia to Azerbaijan annually once the railway infrastructure is upgraded. Starting from 1 January 2028, this will amount to a minimum of 5 million tonnes, rising to 15 million tonnes annually following further decisions.

By Aghakazim Guliyev