OTS rep: Middle Corridor set for push beyond transport route

The Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) is working to streamline customs and transit procedures along the Middle Corridor as part of efforts to make the route more business-friendly and develop it beyond a transport link into an economic hub.

Balázs Hendrich, head of the OTS representation in Hungary, made the remarks at the Second International Conference of Leading National Analytical Centres of the organisation, Azerbaijani media reports.

Hendrich said infrastructure development alone would not be sufficient to ensure the corridor’s growth, stressing the need to consider its commercial efficiency and financing opportunities.

“The Middle Corridor should not simply connect point A and point B. It should bring together countries and market participants ready to invest and produce goods along the route,” he said.

He noted that differences in procedures, documentation requirements, border controls, transit duties and other payments can extend delivery times and make the route less convenient for businesses.

To address these obstacles, the OTS is working with relevant agencies in its member states to harmonise and simplify procedures, strengthen transport links and develop modern infrastructure, Hendrich said.

He added that the introduction of digital customs procedures and intelligent transport systems should improve the efficiency of freight transportation and reduce delays.

By Tamilla Hasanova