Caspian, Black Sea ports join forces to boost trade

Port authorities from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Georgia have discussed ways to strengthen cooperation and enhance transport and logistics links between the Caspian and Black Sea regions.

The meeting brought together representatives of the ports of Aktau, Kuryk, Turkmenbashi, Poti, and Batumi as part of the CICA Conference of Heads of Ports, organized by the Baku International Sea Trade Port of Azerbaijan Railways (ADY), Caliber.Az reports per local media.

The talks focused on developing the Caspian and Black Sea basins into a more efficient, reliable, and competitive transport and logistics hub.

Participants discussed the growing strategic importance of the Middle Corridor, closer coordination among regional ports, and measures to make cargo transportation faster and more predictable. They also explored opportunities for joint initiatives and cooperation.

According to preliminary figures, cargo turnover between Baku Port and ports in Turkmenistan increased by 34.6% in the first eight months of 2026 compared with the same period last year. Cargo turnover with Kazakh ports grew by 6% over the same period.

The participants also exchanged views on addressing common challenges facing regional ports and advancing cooperation on a more institutionalized and sustainable basis.

By Vafa Guliyeva