Digitalization in the field of transport logistics is becoming a crucial tool for the development of trade in Central Asia. The countries in the region are actively transitioning to the use of electronic documents and risk management systems at borders, which significantly speeds up the cargo transportation process, reduces waiting times at checkpoints, and lowers administrative barriers. This was reported by Urmat Takirov, director of the Export Center of Kyrgyzstan under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, at the B5+1 forum.
As Takirov noted, international experience shows that 80-90% of cargo transportation is carried out without physical inspection, with checks conducted based on pre-available electronic documents for border and customs services. This significantly simplifies logistics and reduces administrative barriers.
Moreover, he emphasized that issues of transport logistics are interconnected with veterinary and phytosanitary control, product safety, intellectual property protection, and customs administration. All these aspects require a comprehensive approach and coordinated actions from various agencies.
As part of the strategy for the development of the customs service of the Kyrgyz Republic, a Unified Automated Information System (EIS) is being implemented, which integrates customs procedures with other government bodies. This allows employees at checkpoints to receive information about cargo and necessary documents in advance. However, some processes are still not fully digitized, and work on modernization continues.
As Urmat Takirov emphasized, the level of readiness for digitalization varies among different agencies and countries in the region, leading to parallel implementation of reforms. However, a strong team of IT specialists has already formed within the customs service of Kyrgyzstan, creating a reliable foundation for future transformations.
In the next 2-3 years, the implementation of key elements of digital harmonization is expected, which will be an important step towards creating a unified trade and logistics space in Central Asia.
