KTZ to Develop Its Own Maritime Fleet: Contracts Signed for Construction of Six Vessels

KTZ to Develop Its Own Maritime Fleet: Contracts Signed for Construction of Six Vessels

📅 April 30, 2026

📍 Jiangsu Province, China

📍 Baku, Azerbaijan

As part of the implementation of the Head of State’s поручения, JSC NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy has initiated the development of its own maritime fleet to further strengthen the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor).

KTZ Express subsidiary, KTZ Express Shipping LLP, has signed contracts for the construction of six multipurpose dry cargo/container vessels. Agreements were concluded with Jiangsu Haizhongzhou Shipping Industry Co., Ltd. for the construction of four vessels, and with the Baku Shipyard for an additional two.

The project is aimed at reinforcing Kazakhstan’s position along the Middle Corridor and establishing a sustainable maritime component within the corridor.

The vessels will be built to the “river-sea” class, with a deadweight of up to 9,900 tons and a capacity of up to 537 TEU, optimized for operations across the Caspian and Black Sea routes. This will ensure efficient integration of the maritime segment into the unified Middle Corridor logistics chain.

The vessels will be equipped with advanced navigation and control systems in compliance with international standards and environmental regulations, including IMO and MARPOL requirements. Classification services will be provided by Bureau Veritas, ensuring high standards of safety, reliability, and environmental performance. This will also enhance operational flexibility across international routes and strengthen confidence among global shippers.

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