Multimodal logistics systems in Kazakhstan: comparative assessment of logistics performance and international transport corridors

Multimodal logistics systems in Eurasia are evolving amid increasing freight complexity, intensifying competition for transport corridors, and reconfigured transport links between Europe and Asia. This study aims to evaluate the structural differences in logistics performance in selected countries and identify factors influencing the effectiveness of multimodal logistics corridors, with particular focus on Kazakhstan. The methodology combines a comparative analysis of the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and its six components; a temporal comparison of Kazakhstan and China from 2007 to 2023; a case study of Globalink Logistics; questionnaire-based operational diagnostics; and multimodal route modelling. The results reveal that Kazakhstan occupies an intermediate position within the Eurasian logistics system, outperforming several Central Asian countries but lagging behind China and Turkey in terms of infrastructure quality, logistics competence, tracking and tracing, and customs efficiency. The findings suggest that the competitiveness of multimodal corridors depends not only on transit location, but also on infrastructure quality, service reliability, node connectivity, digitalization, institutional coordination and the efficient integration of transport modes. The study concludes that strengthening Kazakhstan’s logistics position requires an integrated approach combining infrastructure modernization, customs improvements, digital tracking systems and more effective coordination across logistics hubs, operators and transport corridors.