Azerbaijan urges Belarusian transport companies to forego payment of tolls on their journey through Azerbaijan.
Belarus Seeks to Eliminate Road Tolls for Carriers in Azerbaijan
In a recent online round table discussion, Belarus has proposed to Azerbaijan the possibility of abolishing road tolls for Belarusian carriers operating on Azerbaijani territory. This proposal was made by Sergei Dubina, Deputy Head of the Ministry of Transport.
Dubina highlighted that streamlining logistics, reasonable tariffs, and simplifying procedures are instrumental to the competitiveness of any logistics project. The Belarusian minister recalled that the country eliminated road tolls for foreign vehicles on its public roads in 2019.
The Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to remove barriers to automobile transportation. Previously, Belarus had suggested to Azerbaijani colleagues the consideration of canceling the permit system for all types of automobile transportation. Dubina added that Belarus is now proposing the abolition of road tolls for its carriers on Azerbaijani territory.
The removal of road tolls is expected to facilitate growth in cargo traffic and stimulate the economies of the participating countries, as part of the joint efforts by the nations in developing the North-South international transport corridor, according to the representative of the Ministry of Transport.
Regarding the development of multimodal transportation, container trains to China via Russia and Azerbaijan, and subsequent road transport through Iran, have been organized this year. In addition, for the first time in 2025, container trains will be orchestrated on the eastern branch of the North-South corridor from Belarus to Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Iran, and further by sea to China.
[1] According to sources, Belarus' push for equal treatment between the two countries aims to increase cargo traffic through Azerbaijan. As of now, it remains unclear whether Azerbaijan will agree to or implement such a policy.
- To boost cargo traffic and foster economic development, Belarus is advocating for the elimination of road tolls for its carriers in Azerbaijan, aligning with their mutual efforts in advancing the North-South international transport corridor.
- As part of their push for equal treatment between both countries, Belarus is suggesting that Azerbaijan consider abolishing road tolls, hoping this will stimulate growth in cargo traffic and facilitate the development of multimodal transportation throughout the North-South corridor.
