Kazakhstan has opened two modernized motor vehicle checkpoints—Kazygurt on the border with Uzbekistan and Temir-baba on the border with Turkmenistan—in an effort to boost trade and cargo transportation in the region, primeminister.kz reported.
The checkpoints were reconstructed as part of the state program to modernize border infrastructure.
The program covers nine checkpoints located on Kazakhstan’s border with China, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Modernization at the Kaplanbek, Atameken, Kolzhat, and Alakol checkpoints was completed earlier, and the Tazhen, Maykapchagay, and Baqty checkpoints will be put into operation on 25 December 2025.
Due to the introduction of new technologies, border crossing times at the modernized checkpoints have been reduced to 30 minutes, and throughput capacity has been increased to 1,000 vehicles per day.
Traffic through the previously modernized checkpoints has already increased 2.5-fold. While 640,000 vehicles crossed the border in 2022, this figure has now risen to 1.5 million.
The upgraded Kazygurt checkpoint now represents a modern, technologically advanced complex that meets international standards. It features an automated vehicle registration system, state-of-the-art scanning equipment, weighing systems, X-ray systems, thermal imaging cameras, and radiation monitoring equipment. Traffic flows are separated for pedestrians, cars, and trucks, enhancing convenience.
Other projects are also underway. Reconstruction of the Zhibek Zholy checkpoint on the border with Uzbekistan began in April 2025. Once completed in July 2026, the checkpoint’s capacity will increase to 70,000 people and 2,000 vehicles per day.
One of the most innovative is the joint project with China, Baqty–Pokitu.
Back in July 2025, Kazakhstan and China agreed to launch a pilot project, “Smart Customs,” at the border checkpoints Baqty (Kazakhstan) and Pokitu (China).
The Chinese side is investing approximately $50 million in the creation of fully automated logistics centers at both checkpoints. The project will introduce driverless electric shuttles for cargo transportation, implement smart logistics, build charging stations, and ensure the full integration of the two countries’ digital systems, establishing one of the most technologically advanced transport corridors in the Central Asian region.
