The Tbilisi Silk Road Forum emphasizes the transformative potential of the Middle Corridor as a crucial transportation route connecting Asia and Europe. This route can significantly reduce costs, transit times, and environmental impacts associated with goods transportation, making it an attractive alternative to traditional maritime and northern routes.

Significance of Reduced Transit Times and Costs

Compared to conventional shipping routes, the Middle Corridor shortens transit distances by approximately 3,000 kilometers. This reduction means that freight from China to Europe can now arrive in about 15-25 days—much faster than the typical 25-45 days by sea. Faster delivery enhances supply chain reliability and reduces operational costs, especially benefiting industries dependent on just-in-time logistics.

Integration of Multimodal Transport

The corridor’s multi-modal nature combines rail, sea, and road transport across the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and beyond. Investments in modernizing Georgian ports such as Poti and Anaklia, along with railway upgrades like the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, improve the efficiency of cargo movement. Digitalization efforts and customs modernization further streamline transit, reducing bottlenecks and boosting overall efficiency.

Environmental Benefits of Overland Routes

One of the key advantages of the Middle Corridor is its minimal environmental impact. The shorter transit times and less fuel consumption reduce the carbon footprint compared to maritime routes. This aligns with global sustainability goals and regional initiatives like the EU’s Global Gateway, which aim to foster greener trade pathways.

Enhancing Resilience and Security

The corridor offers a strategic alternative to routes that pass through geopolitically sensitive or sanctioned areas, thus increasing the resilience and security of Eurasian trade. Participants at the forum highlighted the benefits of connectivity improvements for economic growth and environmental sustainability, emphasizing Georgia’s strategic position as a transit hub.

Diplomatic and Regional Progress

The forum also serves as a diplomatic platform, fostering regional cooperation and stability. Notable developments include Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan confirming ongoing efforts to normalize relations with Azerbaijan, and the creation of a joint rail company between Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Kazakhstan. These initiatives demonstrate a collective push toward greater regional integration and economic cooperation.

Future Outlook and Capacity Growth

Reports indicate that the Middle Corridor’s capacity is expected to grow substantially, with projections of over 1.4 million TEUs by 2040, driven by infrastructure investments like Georgia’s East-West Highway and new port facilities. The corridor’s rapid growth—marked by a 173% surge in container transit in early 2025—underscores its increasing importance as a trade artery.

Conclusion: A Strategic Nexus for Eurasian Growth

The Silk Road Forum in Tbilisi underscores how regional infrastructure development, digital transformation, and diplomatic efforts can unlock the full potential of the Middle Corridor. Positioned as a vital link between Asia and Europe, Georgia is emerging as a key player in global logistics, promoting faster, greener, and more resilient trade routes that benefit the entire Eurasian region.