The Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) is often considered in Europe as little more than an alternative transit route to and from China. However, its potential has attracted interest from Beijing and the Arab World. This could be a missed opportunity for Europe. Speaking to RailFreight.com, Dr. Irina Birman (Strategic Logistics Advisor & Middle Corridor Expert) emphasised that Europe is not taking a firm stance.
One of the main issues highlighted by Birman is that EU countries, institutions, and companies show limited commitment at scale in the context of the Middle Corridor. "Europe will lose this market if it does not step up. A few big European companies are already present, such as MSC and Maersk, but it is a slow process," she said. The corridor crosses the Caspian Sea via Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.
According to Birman, the Middle Corridor has begun to position itself as a market in its own right. The region holds strategic importance through shared supplier networks, energy resources (Kazakh grain, Azerbaijani oil), and demographic makeup. Central Asia's domestic consumer markets are growing. China's Belt and Road Initiative and investments from Gulf Cooperation Council members appear ready to draw the corridor into their spheres of influence should Europe fall behind.
Key Takeaways:
1. Dr. Irina Birman warned that Europe is showing insufficient commitment to the Middle Corridor.
2. The Middle Corridor is not just an alternative transit route to China but a market in its own right.
3. A few major European companies such as MSC and Maersk are active, but progress is slow.
4. Interest from Beijing and the Arab World in the corridor is rising rapidly.
5. Europe could lose the market if it does not step up.
