Kazakhstan and China launch the Smart Customs pilot project

Bakhty, July 21, 2025 — Kazakhstan and China are launching the Smart Customs innovative pilot project on the Kazakh-Chinese border. The initiative plans to launch unmanned cargo transportation through the Bakhty (RK) — Pokitu (China) border checkpoints.

The project was agreed upon during a working meeting between Zhansos Duyssembiev, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Mr. Zhi Xianwei, Secretary of the Party Committee of Tacheng City.

The key features of the project include:

the use of unmanned automated vehicles (AGVs) for automatic border crossing without the involvement of drivers;the launch of a unified electronic declaration that is recognized by both countries;

24/7 cargo movement with minimal manual intervention;

full digital support and cargo processing;

the implementation of automated navigation and control.

Expected effect:

increase in the volume of cargo traffic to 10 million tons per year;

significant reduction in the time for customs clearance;

reduction in transport costs;

increased transparency and security of logistics operations;
unloading of the road infrastructure and development of logistics hubs;
stimulation of exports of agricultural products, including grain, oilseeds, meat and processed goods.

Economic significance:

The initiative will serve as a driver for the modernization of border infrastructure, creation of new jobs and attraction of investments. The project will enhance trade and economic cooperation with China and strengthen Kazakhstan's position as a key transit hub in Central Asia.

During the visit, a bilateral memorandum of cooperation was signed to jointly implement the project, coordinate efforts, and share experiences in digitalizing customs and logistics procedures.