Iran and Afghanistan are progressing with new rail infrastructure projects as Central Asian transport corridors continue to expand, offering significant opportunities for international freight movement, according to Eurasianet.
In May 2025, the first freight train from Xi’an, China, arrived at Iran’s Aprin dry port, marking a notable milestone in the development of overland trade routes between East Asia and the Middle East. The service highlights the growing importance of rail as a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional maritime shipping lanes.
The expansion of these rail links is expected to enhance regional connectivity, reduce transit times, and open new commercial opportunities across Central Asia. For freight forwarders and shippers, the development provides additional routing options and greater flexibility when moving goods between Asia and Europe.