Pakistan Railways, Russia’s RZD Logistics sign freight forwarding contract

Profit by Pakistan Today reported that Pakistan Railways has signed a freight forwarding contract with Russian Railways Logistics, known as RZD Logistics. The accord sets out a framework for cross-border cargo movement and combined transport. It forms part of efforts to deepen rail ties with Russia, widen regional links, boost trade and help upgrade the national railway.

A Pakistan-Russia Pilot Container Freight Train was also agreed, aimed at promoting rail-based trade and linking Pakistan, Russia and Central Asian countries. The train was not able to start as scheduled because of the regional conflict. Both sides still back the plan and are coordinating to begin service once conditions in the region allow.

The arrangement is also anticipated to widen rail-based trade and regional connectivity via lower-cost, sustainable multimodal freight options. Technical know-how and good practices in railway freight work will be shared between the parties, supporting better logistics efficiency. Pakistan Railways is expected to gain financial footing by expanding its international freight business and linking the country more closely with regional and global trade routes.