The Minister of Rail Transport of Turkmenistan, Mammet Akmammedov, outlined strategies for attracting foreign investment into the transport and logistics sector at the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2026) in Ashgabat. Among the priorities are the modernisation of the locomotive and rolling stock fleets, and the creation of ‘dry ports’ and container terminals, reports Turkmenportal.

According to the Minister, cooperation with foreign investors and financial organisations is proposed to be developed along three main lines. The first concerns investment in railway infrastructure and the modernisation of rolling stock.

The second area relates to the introduction of resource-saving technologies, the electrification of railway lines and the use of environmentally friendly solutions in line with the international climate agenda.

The third priority identified is the establishment of multimodal logistics chains. In particular, there are plans to develop integrated operators and ‘door-to-door’ services, which should ensure faster and more reliable delivery of goods.

The speech paid particular attention to the Trans-Caspian route. As Akmammedov noted, the integration of the railway network with the Turkmenbashi International Seaport creates the conditions for the formation of a unified logistics system.

Digital solutions are also being introduced in this sector. These include electronic document management, digital waybills and platforms that enable the tracking of cargo movements in real time. According to the minister, digitalisation helps to reduce the time taken for customs and border procedures.

Akmammedov highlighted Turkmenistan’s importance for international freight transport. The country is situated at the crossroads of the ‘North–South’ and ‘East–West’ transport routes.

The ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran’ railway route provides the countries of Central Asia and Russia with access to the ports of the Persian Gulf, with onward access to the Indian markets. Another route involves the transit of goods from China and the Asia-Pacific region towards Europe.

The Head of the Department stated that Turkmenistan is ready to implement long-term joint projects with foreign partners and invited investors and logistics operators to collaborate.

In addition, participants at TIF 2026 were invited to take part in the International Conference and Exhibition ‘International Transport and Transit Corridors: Interconnection and Development – 2026’. The event will take place in Ashgabat on 24–26 November.