KTZ’s Sunflower Oil Shipment: Rail Innovation in Kazakhstan-China Trade

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Introduction

Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ) has completed its first shipment of sunflower oil using flexitanks in 40-foot containers, dispatched from Predgornaya station in the East Kazakhstan Region, and delivered to Nantong, China, via the Dostyk–Alashankou border crossing.

First Shipment

The pilot consignment of sunflower oil was transported in 40-foot containers. The shipment originated from Predgornaya station in the East Kazakhstan Region and was delivered to Nantong in Jiangsu Province, China.

Project Background

The project was initiated following agreements made at the Subgroup of Experts on Transport and Marketing Organisation meeting between KTZ and China Railways, which took place in Zhengzhou in June 2025.

Technical Aspects and Benefits

The technical preparation of the containers, including flexitank installation, was conducted by a Kazakhstani company. These preparations met the requirements of both Kazakhstani and Chinese railway authorities. According to Kairat Zhumabayev, a representative of KTZ’s Integrated Planning Directorate, the use of flexitanks reduces transport costs, accelerates loading and unloading, and improves overall export-import logistics efficiency.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

KTZ has been actively developing vegetable oil exports using flexitanks in 20-foot containers since 2020, increasing supply volumes to China. Over the past five years, vegetable oil shipments to China have increased tenfold. The use of 40-foot containers is expected to further expand export opportunities. Flexitanks are designed to transport up to 26 tonnes of liquid cargo within standard containers, offering protection and minimizing contamination risks.

Conclusion

The initial shipment of sunflower oil using flexitanks in 40-foot containers from Predgornaya station to Nantong, China, marks a milestone for KTZ. This development follows agreements made in June 2025 with China Railways and aims to expand vegetable oil exports, building on existing successes with 20-foot container shipments.

Company Summary

Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ): The national railway company of Kazakhstan, involved in freight and passenger transportation, infrastructure development, and international trade facilitation.

China Railways: The national railway company of China, responsible for the operation of the country’s extensive railway network.

National Association of Oilseed Processors: A non-profit organization supporting the development of Kazakhstan’s fats and oils industry.

Technology

Flexitanks: Flexible inner liners placed inside standard containers, designed for transporting liquid cargo, offering protection and minimizing contamination risks.

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