PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF THE TRANSPORT AND LOGISTIC SYSTEM OF KAZAKHSTAN UNDER CONDITIONS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

This paper examines the functioning and development of the transport and logistics system in the Republic of Kazakhstan from 2019 to 2024. The study is based on statistical data, comparative analysis with international practices, expert assessments, and cartographic visualization of major corridors. Such a multi-method approach made it possible to evaluate both quantitative indicators and qualitative transformations in the industry. The analysis demonstrates that Kazakhstan occupies a strategically advantageous position at the crossroads of Eurasian trade flows, which predetermines its role as a key transit hub. Between 2019 and 2024, transit volumes increased significantly, particularly along the China–Europe corridor, confirming the country’s growing relevance in international logistics networks. At the same time, the modal distribution of freight transportation has remained relatively stable, with railway and road transport consistently dominating. Investment activity showed a sharp rise in 2023–2024, with allocations primarily directed toward modernization of railway and road infrastructure. However, the level of financing for digital solutions and ecological innovations remained modest. This imbalance creates long-term risks, as global logistics trends are increasingly shaped by green transformation and digital platforms. Pilot projects in multimodal and environmentally friendly transport were launched, but their scale is still insufficient to ensure systemic change. The research also highlighted key structural constraints: deterioration of infrastructure, shortage of qualified specialists, underdevelopment of logistics hubs, and insufficient digitalisation. These factors reduce Kazakhstan’s competitiveness compared to leading transit economies. The novelty of this study lies in linking investment dynamics, digitalization, and ecological priorities within a single analytical framework, which allows identifying potential strategies for sustainable sectoral development. The practical significance of the findings lies in their applicability to policymaking and business strategies, including the diversification of corridors, the balanced distribution of freight modes, and the targeted promotion of digital and green logistics.