World Bank weighs expanded role in Azerbaijan’s transport infrastructure

The World Bank is considering expanding its involvement in Azerbaijan’s transport infrastructure, citing the rapid growth of freight and container traffic along the Middle Corridor linking China and Europe via the Caspian region.

Freight volumes between China and Azerbaijan continued to rise in 2025, driven largely by container transport. Azerbaijan Railways (ADY) handled 392 block trains last year, a 37 per cent increase compared to 2024, reflecting growing demand for the trans-Caspian route, Caliber.Az reports per the agency.

During a meeting with World Bank’s Director for Infrastructure in Europe and Central Asia Charles Cormier, ADY Chairman Rovshan Rustamov said the positive dynamics were supported by operational improvements and deeper international cooperation, including the participation of China Railway Container Transport Corp. Ltd. (CRCT) in Middle Corridor Multimodal Ltd — a joint venture established by the railway authorities of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Georgia to develop the route.

Efficiency gains were further strengthened after the Baku International Sea Trade Port was integrated into Azerbaijan Railways in 2024. In 2025, the Port of Baku handled a record 107,000 TEU of container cargo, up 40 per cent year on year, reinforcing its role as a key logistics hub on the Caspian Sea.

During talks in Baku, World Bank officials discussed potential participation in the second phase of the Baku port’s development, as well as technical assistance and investment opportunities.

Cormier noted that said the development of the Middle Corridor opens new avenues for long-term cooperation with Azerbaijan Railways.

By Sabina Mammadli