Georgian Deputy Economy Minister says role of Middle Corridor as “crucial” economic route between Europe, Asia “steadily” increasing

Genadi Arveladze, the Deputy Economy Minister of Georgia, on Thursday said the role of the Middle Corridor as a crucial economic route between Europe and Asia was “steadily” increasing.

In his remarks at ​​a panel session at the annual meeting of national representatives of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation, Arveladze noted that the Corridor's growing importance lies in its strategic location, offering a faster alternative to traditional trade routes while enhancing supply chain resilience.

Arveladze highlighted that the growing importance of the Middle Corridor as an alternative route was already reflected in a significant increase in freight volumes, adding that container shipments between China and Georgia via the corridor grew 15 times last year, reaching a record 12,678 TEU.

The Deputy Minister also introduced key transport and logistics infrastructure projects in Georgia, highlighting railway modernisation, development of the East-West Highway, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, and Anaklia deep-sea port.

He also discussed reforms implemented in the country to improve road and rail safety standards.

“Enhancing the competitiveness of the Middle Corridor is a priority for Georgia, allowing it to strengthen its position as a key logistics and trade hub along the route. In this context, CAREC’s transport corridor projects are vital for improving connectivity and enhancing the efficiency of operational systems”, Arveladze said.

He further extended gratitude to the Asian Development Bank for its support in developing Georgia’s transport infrastructure.