Iran confirms new railway routes to expand trade corridor with China

Iran’s Ministry of Roads and Urban Development has confirmed plans to expand railway links to strengthen trade with China under the framework of the 25-year strategic partnership between the two countries. This is reported by Mehr News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

Amin Taraf, Head of the International Affairs Centre at Iran’s Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, highlighted that Iran is already connected to Central Asia via the Sarakhs and Incheh-Borun rail lines, which in turn link the country to Kazakhstan and onward to China. He noted that new rail routes, including a China–Kyrgyzstan line, are under construction, creating a more direct and efficient connection between Iran and China.

Taraf also indicated that road connections between Iran and China could be established within the next few months, complementing the existing rail network. He highlighted that these developments build on the long-standing flow of imports and exports from China through Iran, ensuring the country remains a vital transit corridor for trade moving westwards from China. 

Enhanced infrastructure is expected to increase Iran’s share of international freight traffic, providing economic benefits and strengthening its role in regional logistics.

While more than 90 per cent of trade between Iran and China currently takes place via maritime routes, the development of rail and road links is viewed as a strategic opportunity to diversify transport channels, enhance connectivity, and strengthen Iran’s position in regional and international trade networks, the report emphasised.

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