CAREC Institute and New Development Bank Host Low-Carbon and Smart Logistics Hub Development Workshop

The CAREC Institute (CI) and the New Development Bank (NDB) co-hosted a workshop on developing low-carbon and smart logistics hub at CI’s headquarters in Urumqi on 9 September 2025. The event was attended by CI’s Director Charymuhammet Shallyyev, Deputy Director Two Kuat Akizhanov, representatives from the NDB, officials from relevant departments of the Xinjiang Autonomous Region government, as well as experts from research institutes and industry.

In their opening remarks, Director Shallyyev, government officials, and NDB representatives emphasized the importance of green innovation in advancing sustainable logistics, strengthening regional connectivity, and promoting trade across the CAREC region.

The workshop highlighted Alashankou, a key rail hub on the China-Europe route via Kazakhstan, which has seen rapid growth in trade and cargo volumes since being designated a National Logistics Hub in 2020. Mr. Tian He, Principal Professional at NDB’s Public Sector Department, introduced the Alashankou Port Infrastructure Development Project, currently under NDB’s appraisal, which aims to upgrade infrastructure, incorporate renewable energy, and implement digital platforms to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

Complementing these infrastructure efforts, Dr. Ghulam Samad, CI’s Chief of Research, shared insights from the 2023 CAREC Corridor Performance Measurement and Monitoring report (CPMM 2023). The findings revealed a drop in road freight rates between Urumqi and Almaty in 2023, indicating improved efficiency. However, certain border crossing procedures continued to limit transit speed.

Participants from local government departments, universities, design institutes, consultancy firms, and the private sector exchanged views on Xinjiang’s foreign trade trends, practical approaches to eco-friendly logistics, and the use of digital systems for customs clearance. These discussions contributed valuable perspectives on how to further enhance the efficiency and sustainability of logistics operations in the region.

In his closing remarks, Director Shallyyev emphasized, “Alashankou Port is a vital gateway for regional connectivity. By working together, we can make it a model for green and smart logistics, benefiting the entire CAREC region.”

Through continued collaboration with partners such as the NDB, the CAREC Institute promotes regional connectivity and sustainable development by providing research, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to support stakeholders across the region.