Turkmenbashi port launches e-TIR Pilot on Azerbaijan-Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan trade corridor

The Turkmenbashi International Seaport has launched pilot cargo transit operations using the electronic TIR system on the Azerbaijan-Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan transport corridor, marking a step towards fully digital customs procedures across the region.

Pilot project begins at Turkmenbashi Port

The pilot programme is taking place from 22 to 24 July with the support of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). It follows technical training for customs officials and cooperation involving the International Road Transport Union (IRU) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Earlier, customs authorities from Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan met with international partners to coordinate the implementation of electronic transit procedures along the multimodal corridor.

Replacing paper with digital customs procedures

The e-TIR system enables the electronic exchange of customs transit information, replacing traditional paper-based TIR carnets.

Officials say the digital platform is expected to simplify border procedures, improve coordination between customs authorities and accelerate international cargo movements.

According to the Azerbaijan International Road Carriers Association (ABADA), the first pilot shipment has already travelled from Kazakhstan to Azerbaijan across the Caspian Sea and will continue to Turkmenistan as part of the trial.

Supporting regional trade and connectivity

The transport corridor carries a wide range of cargo, including agricultural products, textiles, industrial goods and containerised freight, connecting Central Asia with markets in the Caucasus and Europe.

ABADA Secretary General Kanan Gurbanov said the next phase will include the introduction of the electronic CMR consignment note, further digitalising international road transport.

He added that Azerbaijan already exchanges transport permits electronically with Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, reducing paperwork, shortening border crossing times and improving the efficiency of cross-border freight operations.

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Part of a broader digital transport strategy

The e-TIR pilot forms part of wider regional efforts to modernise transport corridors, facilitate trade and strengthen connectivity between Central Asia, the Caspian region and European markets. Officials say expanding digital customs systems is expected to make international transit faster, more transparent and more efficient.

Tags

Digital Customs Azerbaijan Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Central Asia Caspian Sea