Baku: Azerbaijan is poised to fully capitalize on the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway line by next year, following enhancements in railway infrastructure and customs procedures. The completion of tests on the BTK line in 2025 and streamlined customs processes are expected to significantly increase Azerbaijan’s rail transport capabilities through Georgia.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the international rating agency S and P Global Ratings has reported that the modernization of the main trunk line on Georgian railways has expanded its capacity from 27 million tons per year to approximately 48 million tons. This upgrade, which began showing effects in September 2025, is projected to have a full impact by 2026, enabling Azerbaijan and Trkiye to maximize their use of the railway connection with Georgian Railways (GR).
S and P Global Ratings highlights that the conclusion of the BTK line’s test phase in 2025, along with improved customs processing mechanisms, will facilitate the resumption of transportation. Georgian Railways’ strategic and marketing initiatives, coupled with infrastructure enhancements supported by the state, are anticipated to underpin the recovery of transportation volumes in the medium to long term.
Moreover, S and P underscores that while these developments are promising, challenges persist for Georgian Railways. The sustainability of growth and the high capital expenditures required for maintaining the existing infrastructure and renewing rolling stock remain critical issues that need to be addressed.