Kazakhstan achieved a record grain export volume of 10.355 million tons in the first ten months of the 2025/2026 marketing year, a 14% increase year-on-year. Total grain transported on the Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) network reached 13.319 million tons, also up 14%. The record was attained despite high rail loads, restrictions on foreign rolling stock, and capacity shortages on certain routes, according to the Grain Union of Kazakhstan.
Central Asian countries drove growth, with shipments to the region totaling 6.57 million tons (+35%). Exports to Uzbekistan reached 4.9 million tons, to Tajikistan 1.34 million tons, and to Afghanistan 891,000 tons, nearly triple the previous period. The Ministry of Transport and KTZ conducted regular on-site commissions at border crossings to sustain logistics. The Ministry of Agriculture's transport subsidy program was cited as a key export support tool, helping diversify markets and increase competition for Kazakh grain. Exporters expect timely reimbursement of incurred costs under the subsidy program to maintain momentum. Zhandos Kuanyshev, Head of the Logistics and Inspection Committee of the Grain Union of Kazakhstan, noted the joint efforts of farmers, exporters, rail operators, KTZ, and ministries as the basis for the record.