Azernews.Az

Nazrin Abdul

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Azerbaijan’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has steadily elevated its role as a key transit hub. The country’s modern transport infrastructure, diversified railway network, and upgraded logistics services are transforming it into one of the region’s most efficient multimodal centers. At a time when stability in the South Caucasus is gradually improving, favorable opportunities for regional trade are expanding, creating new possibilities for economic integration across Eurasia.

In this context, efficient and coordinated transport corridors become increasingly critical. Growing regional trade flows highlight the importance of the Europe-Caucasus-Asia Transport Corridor (TRACECA), which provides a framework for seamless transport and economic integration across multiple countries in Eurasia. TRACECA is an internationally recognized program aimed at strengthening economic relations, trade, and transport communications between the Black Sea, South Caucasus, and Central Asia. Its objectives include creating a modern, effective, and sustainable transport system, enhancing regional cooperation, and facilitating cross-border trade between participating states and beyond. Today, TRACECA spans 14 member countries, from Azerbaijan and Georgia to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and beyond, providing a strategic land-based alternative to traditional Northern and Southern routes.

Within this framework, TRACECA is planning the launch of the “Maritime Single Window” initiative in Caspian Sea ports. This electronic “single window” system aims to simplify maritime transport procedures, reduce administrative burdens, and increase transparency in port operations. During the “Caspian Ports and Logistics 2025” conference held in Aktau, participants highlighted that the initiative would promote paperless shipping, mutual recognition of electronic documents among member states, and more efficient logistics processes.

Although still in the planning stage, Azerbaijan, as a key TRACECA participant, is expected to benefit from the system once implemented. Faster customs clearance, improved port operations, and enhanced coordination between transport authorities could allow the country to expand transit volumes, integrate more efficiently into regional supply chains, and strengthen its role as a multimodal hub. Globally, single window systems in countries such as Singapore, the Netherlands, and South Korea have demonstrated significant advantages, including shorter customs clearance times, reduced operational costs, and improved coordination among stakeholders.

The TRACECA Maritime Single Window initiative complements ongoing modernization efforts in the region. Projects include road reconstruction, expansion of diversified railway networks, and upgrading port and logistics infrastructure. By integrating digital tools like the Maritime Single Window, TRACECA member states and including Azerbaijan are preparing to enhance trade efficiency, attract international investment, and promote regional economic integration.

At the Aktau session, TRACECA Secretary-General Asset Assavbayev noted the importance of the TRACECA Base Multilateral Agreement as the corridor’s legal foundation. He also outlined the organization’s priorities: implementing the TRACECA Strategy and Action Plan, developing multimodal infrastructure, and advancing digital transformation in transport and logistics processes. Discussions focused on port modernization, application of international standards, and enhancing the competitiveness of Caspian routes, all critical for long-term corridor sustainability.

The Central Corridor, a core TRACECA route, connects China and Central Asia to Europe via the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye. By offering a land-based alternative to longer maritime routes, it links Eastern Asia directly with Europe. Azerbaijan’s central geographic position ensures it is one of the main beneficiaries of TRACECA initiatives, including the Maritime Single Window once implemented, which will improve trade speed, logistics efficiency, and regional economic integration.

In conclusion, the TRACECA Maritime Single Window initiative represents a strategic step for the corridor, aiming to simplify procedures, increase transparency, and enhance efficiency. For Azerbaijan and other participating countries, it promises faster trade flows, optimized port operations, and stronger integration into the global economy, reinforcing TRACECA’s role as a critical conduit for Eurasian commerce.