Irish and international freight firm Kerry Logistics has launched a new rail and trucking service between China via Kazakhstan and the Caucasus to Turkey.

The new route starts at Lianyungang (the bridgehead of the China New Land Bridge) and sends rail freight across Kazakhstan and the Caspian Sea to a number of destinations in Turkey through the newly completed Baku – Tbilisi – Kars railway. The service offers full train as well as single wagon services that will take 18-20 days. It is projected that the main goods being sent along this route will be electronic parts, appliances, auto parts and other industrial goods.

As well as the rail freight route there will be trucks passing along a similar route from China to Turkey. 50 vehicles will use the route which will have a faster transit time of 12-14 days.

In a statement, Edwardo Erni, Managing Director – China & North Asia of Kerry Logistics, said: “We are excited about the launch of this new cross-border service. With our rail freight and trucking capabilities extending their reach to the strategic locations of Turkey and Caucasus, we will be able to grasp the immense market opportunities presented by the Belt and Road initiative with our enhanced position in the region.”