Русский
Russia’s RZD Logistics has responded to the situation caused by logistics logjams due to the conflict in Iran and has already begun forming departure schedules for the next two months along the INSTC. Despite the remaining difficulties on maritime sections, operators are now beginning the recommencement of land transport along the INSTC.
Dmitry Kryukov, the deputy general director of RZD Logistics, states that companies have already contracted trains for March and April 2026. According to Kryukov, it is possible to work out possible risks with logistical partners involved throughout the route. He said that “Questions with Iran are removed, we interact, and trains are contracted for March-April, despite geopolitics. Market participants rely on facts, not the emotional background in the media.” At the same time, he stated that serious restrictions remain in the Indian Ocean and that regional shipping there is greatly hampered.
The INSTC connects Russia with India, the countries of the Persian Gulf, and Southeast Asia through Iranian seaports, with all three branches of the corridor passing through Iranian territory. According to RZD, in 2024, the volume of rail transport along the corridor amounted to 12.9 million tonnes, which is 3% higher than the indicator of 2023. However, in 2025, the indicator decreased to 9.9 million tonnes. RZD carries about 1% of the total loading along this route.
