Kazakhstan tightens border checks, delaying Russian cargo shipments

Russian importers are experiencing major delays at the Kazakhstan border after Astana stepped up customs checks in mid-June, transport and logistics firms told reporters.

Border clearance times have increased from less than an hour to over 10 days, with delivery delays ranging from 14 to 40 days due to vehicle queues and intensified inspections, including at rail crossings.

Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee said the checks are part of export control procedures on sensitive goods, which will remain in place until common EAEU rules are adopted.

Russian logistics companies suggest the crackdown may be a response to Moscow's own tightening of inspections on Kazakh trucks after drone strikes on Russian airbases in Siberia and the Far East on June 1.

N.Tebrizli