Thousands of trucks from China build up at Russia–Kazakhstan border amid tighter controls from Almaty

Long lines of trucks carrying goods from China have built up at the Russia–Kazakhstan border as authorities on both sides ramp up inspections, Kommersant reports.

According to Maim Yemelin, deputy head of logistics at the transport company SLK, the congestion began in mid-September, mostly affecting trucks transporting dual-use goods and sanctioned items such as electronics, drones, spare parts, clothing, and Western-brand products.

Yemelin noted that many drivers, anticipating thorough inspections, have opted to wait in roadside parking lots in hopes of finding “a better moment” to cross. Alexey Chernyshov, commercial director at transport firm AKFA, said that multi-kilometer queues have stretched along the route from China into Russia via Kazakhstan for three consecutive weeks.

Yaroslav Belousov, head of international transport operations at FM Logistic in Russia, attributed the delays to intensified border checks, as both countries step up efforts to identify “dishonest shippers and carriers.” He added that many crossings are overwhelmed, with trucks filling nearby parking lots and lining the shoulders of approach roads.

Alexander Azatyan, head of logistics at YM Trans Group, estimated that 2,000 to 3,000 trucks are currently waiting at the Mashtakovo crossing between Kazakhstan and Russia. However, a source cited by Kommersant put the number closer to 7,500.

On September 23, Russia’s Federal Customs Service issued a statement claiming the traffic jams were only occurring on the Russian side of the border due to “additional checks by Kazakhstan.” The agency insisted that there were “no queues” or inbound traffic entering Russia.

Kazakhstan’s Transport Ministry, however, reported significant congestion in the neutral zones of several border points, particularly affecting freight traffic headed toward Russia. 

Yemelin of SLK said that the delays could indicate a shift in Kazakhstan’s stance on sanctions enforcement. “It’s safe to say this isn’t a temporary glitch, but more likely a new reality — tighter controls and greater compliance with Western sanctions.”