AD Ports Group and Semurg Invest have embarked on the construction of a new grain terminal at Kuryk Port in Kazakhstan. The facility, named Sarzha Grain Terminal, is set to begin with an initial handling capacity of 570,000 tonnes of grain cargo annually in its first phase, with a plan to scale up to 1.5 million tonnes per year once phase two is completed. The total investment for both phases will exceed $50 million, with AD Ports contributing approximately $30 million. The venture is structured as a joint venture in which the state-owned logistics firm holds a 51 percent share and Semurg owns the remaining 49 percent. Phase one is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2026, with the project envisioned to enhance global food trade by linking Kazakhstan to Europe via the Transcaspian International Transport Route. This initiative showcases AD Ports Group’s commitment to expanding its footprint in Central Asia, particularly in Kazakhstan, by leveraging modern technologies and sustainable practices. The joint venture was first announced in August 2023, and it aligns with AD Ports’ broader strategy to diversify its international portfolio and strengthen regional logistics capabilities. In 2024, AD Ports continued to reinforce its global position by pursuing international ventures designed to broaden its network, capabilities, and presence while prioritizing sustainable innovation and operations. Through ventures in Angola, Egypt, Tanzania, Pakistan, and Georgia, the group expanded into multiple promising markets and reinforced its ambition to become a key player on the global stage. AD Ports Group, controlled by the state investor ADQ, operates Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, a range of additional ports, and logistics parks across the Middle East, Northern Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, Central and Southeast Asia, and Europe. In the third quarter of 2024, the group reported revenue of 4.66 billion dirhams, marking a 10 percent year-over-year increase, while net profit rose 11 percent to 439 million dirhams. These results reflect a sustained trajectory of growth and a strategic emphasis on expanding international operations and capabilities across its diversified port and logistics network.
Project Details and Structure
The Sarzha Grain Terminal project at Kuryk Port represents a carefully structured collaboration between a regional logistics powerhouse and a partner with strategic ties to the Central Asian corridor. The facility’s initial capacity of 570,000 tonnes per year provides a meaningful throughput level that can enable Kazakhstan to move grain more efficiently toward international markets, especially Europe. This capacity is designed to support a gradual scale-up as phase two comes online, culminating in an annual capacity of 1.5 million tonnes. The staged approach to capacity expansion is aligned with typical project finance and industrial implementation models, allowing for phased investment, construction, commissioning, and testing to ensure operational readiness before full-scale operation. The total investment anticipated for both phases surpasses $50 million, with AD Ports contributing approximately $30 million. The ownership structure is a pivotal element of the project: AD Ports Group holds 51 percent, reflecting its dominant stake and strategic influence, while Semurg Invest owns the remaining 49 percent. This share division suggests a balanced governance model capable of integrating the strengths and regional expertise of Semurg with the expansive, international network, capital, and operational know-how of AD Ports.
Phase one’s timeline anchors the project firmly in a growth horizon that seeks to influence trade flows within the Transcaspian International Transport Route and beyond. Completion in the first half of 2026 sets a clear milestone for commissioning, early operations, and ramp-up planning. The strategic aim is not merely to build a grain terminal; it is to develop a node that can facilitate faster, more reliable, and more sustainable grain movement from Kazakhstan toward European markets via a transcontinental corridor. In this sense, Sarzha Grain Terminal is positioned as a conduit that enhances regional food security by improving access to international markets, diversifying supply chains, and reducing transit times and handling bottlenecks. The project’s emphasis on modern technologies and sustainable practices reflects a broader industry trend toward digitized logistics, energy efficiency, and responsible asset management in port operations. The venture’s public narrative underscores a commitment to strengthen Kuryk Port’s role within Kazakhstan’s logistics ecosystem, thereby complementing existing maritime and overland connections and expanding the country’s export capabilities for agricultural commodities.
The joint venture traces its roots to an August 2023 announcement, signaling a strategic intent to deepen AD Ports’ footprint in Central Asia. Since that initial unveiling, AD Ports and its subsidiaries have pursued multiple initiatives in the region to broaden their international footprint and align with evolving global trade patterns. Thestructural design of Sarzha Grain Terminal—combining a robust capacity plan with a staged investment strategy—reflects the broader objectives to diversify markets, optimize supply chain resilience, and harness emerging technologies in port and terminal management. The project’s alignment with the Transcaspian International Transport Route adds a layer of geopolitical and economic significance, as this route represents a key corridor for connecting Central Asia with European markets through maritime and rail connections. The terminal’s construction and eventual operation are anticipated to contribute to Kazakhstan’s storage and handling capabilities, improve cargo synchronization with rail and sea movements, and support broader regional integration. In addition to its explicit role in grain handling, the project is seen as a demonstration of how strategic public-private partnerships can catalyze infrastructure development, foster technology transfer, and promote sustainable port operations within a challenging geographic and logistical landscape. The emphasis on sustainability signals a long-term orientation toward responsible resource use and environmental stewardship in line with modern port development practices.
AD Ports Group’s broader strategic narrative in 2024 emphasizes expanding internationally and investing in promising projects that enhance its network, capabilities, and global presence. The company highlights its ventures across diverse geographies as evidence of a well-rounded growth engine that balances regional leadership with international reach. The expansions and investments undertaken during the year align with an overarching strategy to integrate new markets into AD Ports’ operational ecosystem while maintaining a focus on sustainable innovation and operational excellence. The company’s portfolio in Africa, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and Europe is designed to create synergies across its port and logistics assets, enabling more seamless global supply chains and more resilient commercial capabilities. This approach complements the Sarzha Grain Terminal project by showcasing how AD Ports leverages its experience in port operations, logistics networks, and digital technologies to support a broader mission of facilitating international trade, improving maritime-led value chains, and advancing sustainable development goals within its portfolio. The project at Kuryk Port is thus a piece of a larger strategy to reinforce a globally connected, sustainability-driven logistics framework that can adapt to evolving trade patterns while supporting regional economic growth and diversification.
Investment, Ownership, and Economic Implications
The financial architecture of the Sarzha Grain Terminal reflects a deliberate balance between public-private collaboration and strategic ownership. The total expected investment exceeding $50 million across both phases is a significant capital commitment that signals confidence in the region’s agricultural export potential and in the capacity of modern terminal facilities to handle grain efficiently. AD Ports Group’s contribution of approximately $30 million underscores its role as the lead investor and major stakeholder in the project. The 51 percent ownership held by AD Ports illustrates a decisive governance position that can shape commercial strategy, operational standards, procurement choices, and technology adoption at the terminal. Semurg Invest owns the remaining 49 percent, providing essential local or regional expertise and investment synergy that can help tailor the project to Kazakhstan’s market dynamics, regulatory environment, and trade routes. This ownership balance may also influence how profits are distributed, how reinvestment decisions are made, and how the terminal integrates with other logistics assets and corridors within the region. The combination of strong international capital and local or regional ownership elements is often a deliberate choice to maximize both financial viability and local alignment with development agendas.
From an economic perspective, the Sarzha Grain Terminal is positioned to bolster Kazakhstani grain handling and export capacity, thereby contributing to the country’s agricultural supply chains and international trade footprint. The initial capacity of 570,000 tonnes per year will serve as a meaningful throughput that can generate steady cargo flows and create efficiencies in storage, handling, and onward movement to European markets via the Transcaspian International Transport Route. The planned expansion to 1.5 million tonnes per year in phase two represents a substantial uplift that can influence trade patterns, reduce reliance on alternative routes, and improve the synchronization of grain production with export demand. By integrating modern technologies and sustainable practices, the terminal can also improve efficiency, reduce waste, and lower per-tonne environmental impact, aligning with evolving expectations for responsible port operations. The strategic importance of the project is further underscored by its location at Kuryk Port, which serves as a critical node for maritime access in the Caspian region and for rail connections that can feed into European corridors or other major markets. The successful execution of phase one and the subsequent expansion could serve as a model for similar cross-border infrastructure collaborations in Central Asia, potentially encouraging further investments in grain handling facilities, logistics parks, and related supply chain assets that support diversified export channels.
In the context of AD Ports Group’s broader business strategy, the Sarzha Grain Terminal sits alongside a portfolio of international initiatives designed to extend the reach of its port and logistics services. The group’s emphasis on sustainable innovation and operational excellence is evident in its approach to building out new terminals and logistics hubs that can support efficient, low-emission operations and digitalized supply chains. The project’s alignment with Central Asian market development goals and Europe-bound trade is consistent with a broader trend toward regional integration and the optimization of export-oriented value chains. The joint venture arrangement with Semurg Invest suggests a cooperative strategy that leverages both international capital and local market knowledge, potentially enhancing risk management, regulatory compliance, and market responsiveness. As the project progresses, it will be important to monitor how the terminal integrates with other regional transport corridors, including rail links and downstream logistics services, to maximize throughput, minimize lead times, and enable smoother cargo handoffs across different modes of transport. The economic implications extend beyond the terminal itself, potentially stimulating ancillary activities such as transport services, warehousing, and value-added grain processing in the wider Kazakhstani logistics ecosystem.
Construction Timeline, Milestones, and Operational Readiness
Phase one of the Sarzha Grain Terminal is expected to reach completion in the first half of 2026, marking a critical milestone in the project’s development. This timeline implies a structured construction schedule that encompasses site preparation, civil works, installation of handling and storage infrastructure, installation of loading and unloading equipment, and the integration of digital systems for terminal management and traceability. As the construction progresses, the project team will likely focus on mechanical and electrical installations, safety and compliance measures, and ongoing coordination with local authorities to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and environmental standards. The staged approach to development suggests a plan for incremental commissioning, with early operational testing and performance verification designed to confirm throughput capabilities, load-handling capacities, and safety protocols before full-scale operations commence. Such a ramp-up is critical to ensuring a stable transition from construction to operation, minimizing potential disruptions and enabling timely optimization of processes and workflows. The completion of phase one will also set the stage for subsequent investments, expansions, and performance evaluation that will determine the scope and timeline of phase two.
Phase two aims to expand annual capacity from 570,000 tonnes to 1.5 million tonnes, representing more than a twofold increase. This growth will require additional infrastructure investments, potential expansion of storage facilities, enhanced loading and unloading capabilities, and an expanded network of handling equipment to accommodate higher throughput. The execution of phase two will depend on a continued assessment of market demand, logistical feasibility, and the performance metrics established during phase one. The phase two expansion is a forward-looking component of the project, offering the prospect of greater scale and impact in the region’s grain trade. The successful delivery of both phases will depend on robust project governance, effective risk management, and the ability to align capital expenditures with returns from increased throughput and efficiency gains. As construction advances, stakeholders will be watching for milestones related to procurement, installation, commissioning of key systems, and the achievement of target performance indicators. The envisaged outcomes include enhanced grain handling capacity, improved supply chain resilience, and stronger integration with regional transport corridors that connect Kazakhstan to European markets.
The Sarzha Grain Terminal project reinforces the importance of modern technologies and sustainability as core operating principles. The emphasis on innovative practices in port and terminal management is expected to translate into improvements in throughput, accuracy in cargo handling, traceability, and overall efficiency. Sustainability will likely manifest through measures designed to reduce environmental impact, optimize energy use, and promote responsible waste management. By incorporating these principles into both the design and operation of the terminal, the project aims to align with global best practices and to demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship within the logistics sector. The strategic focus on sustainability is consistent with broader industry trends toward climate-conscious operations, and it may also influence future regulatory expectations, financing terms, and stakeholder confidence. The integration of modern technologies and sustainable practices is expected to yield long-term benefits in terms of operational reliability, cost efficiency, and competitiveness in an increasingly demanding global grain market. The Sarzha Grain Terminal thus stands as a tangible example of how cross-border infrastructure projects can combine scale, strategic routing, and sustainability to drive meaningful improvements in regional trade connectivity and global food supply chains.
Strategic Significance for Global Food Trade and Regional Connectivity
The Sarzha Grain Terminal’s planned functions extend beyond a single facility; it is positioned as a strategic node within a broader regional and international logistics framework. By enabling Kazakhstan to export grain more efficiently to European markets via the Transcaspian International Transport Route, the project aligns with a key objective of diversifying routes and reducing dependency on a limited set of supply corridors. The Transcaspian corridor offers a transit option that can complement other established routes, potentially improving resilience in grain supply chains by providing an alternative path for shipments. The terminal is therefore expected to play a role in strengthening regional trade ties, facilitating smoother flows of agricultural commodities, and supporting the diversification of export channels for Kazakhstan. Improved handling capacity at Kuryk Port can also contribute to reducing transit times, minimizing congestion, and enhancing overall efficiency in the export process. In addition to direct throughput gains, the project can spur downstream benefits such as improved rail connectivity, better storage infrastructure, and integrated logistics services that support end-to-end supply chain performance. The expansion to 1.5 million tonnes per year in phase two would further enhance Kazakhstan’s ability to participate in global grain markets and to meet international demand with greater reliability and speed. The initiative exemplifies how infrastructure projects can be used to connect regional economies with global markets, facilitating the flow of essential commodities and supporting food security on a wider scale.
From a strategic standpoint, AD Ports Group’s involvement in this project demonstrates a continued commitment to expanding its international footprint and reinforcing global logistics capabilities. The company’s portfolio strategy, which emphasizes sustainable innovation and broad geographic diversification, is designed to capture opportunities in regions with growing trade volumes and strategic significance. The Kuryk Port project complements AD Ports’ existing assets and growth platforms by adding a specialized grain handling capability that can integrate with the group’s broader network of ports and logistics infrastructure. The joint venture with Semurg Invest provides a framework for leveraging local knowledge and market access alongside strong international capital and governance. This combination can enhance project feasibility, risk management, and operational alignment with regulatory and market requirements in Kazakhstan and neighboring regions. As AD Ports continues to expand its international presence in 2024 and beyond, Sarzha Grain Terminal is likely to be viewed as a flagship project that demonstrates the company’s ability to deliver large-scale, cross-border logistics solutions that connect regional producers with global consumers. The project also signals the ongoing evolution of Central Asia’s role in global trade networks, underscoring the region’s strategic importance as a corridor for agricultural commodities and other goods that move across continents.
In the broader context of global food trade, the development of a modern grain terminal at Kuryk Port contributes to a pattern of investment in infrastructure that supports more efficient, traceable, and sustainable commodity flows. The project aligns with industry trends that prioritize integrated logistics solutions, digitalization, and environmentally responsible operations. By enabling faster, more reliable grain movements from Kazakhstan to European markets, the Sarzha Grain Terminal has the potential to influence pricing dynamics, trade balances, and the competitive landscape of grain exports in the region. The terminal’s successful execution can also serve as a proof of concept for similar collaborations, encouraging investment in other strategic locations within Central Asia and beyond, where logistics gateways can be developed to support diversified export strategies and enhanced regional connectivity.
AD Ports Group: Growth, Global Footprint, and Sustainability Focus
The Sarzha Grain Terminal project aligns with AD Ports Group’s broader narrative of international expansion and portfolio diversification. The company has pursued a strategy of expanding its global footprint by investing in projects and ventures that extend its reach into key corridors and strategic markets. The group’s activities in 2024—spanning investments in Africa, the Middle East, and various regions in between—reflect a deliberate effort to connect major port hubs with growing trade corridors that can support increased cargo volumes, improved logistics efficiency, and more resilient supply chains. By applying its expertise in port operations, logistics optimization, and digital technologies, AD Ports seeks to create value across its network and to establish itself as a trusted partner for governments and private sector stakeholders seeking reliable infrastructure and sophisticated logistics capabilities. The company’s focus on sustainable innovation is a central pillar of its strategy, and it aims to deliver growth while minimizing environmental impact, reducing emissions, and promoting responsible operations across its global network. The combination of expansive geographic reach, a diversified portfolio, and a commitment to sustainability positions AD Ports to participate effectively in the evolving landscape of international trade and logistics.
Beyond the Sarzha Grain Terminal, AD Ports’ financial performance in 2024 highlights a robust business foundation that supports its growth ambitions. Revenue for Q3 2024 reached 4.66 billion dirhams, representing a 10 percent increase compared with the same period in the previous year. Net profit also rose, by 11 percent, to 439 million dirhams. These figures underscore the company’s ability to scale operations, manage costs, and maintain profitability while expanding its international presence. The positive financial trajectory provides a degree of confidence regarding the company’s capacity to fund large-scale projects, including the Sarzha Grain Terminal, and to finance ongoing expansions across its diverse portfolio. The 2024 performance also reinforces the strategic rationale for pursuing cross-border investments that can unlock new markets, leverage synergies across the port network, and contribute to long-term shareholder value. In summary, AD Ports Group’s 2024 results reflect both the strength of its existing operations and the potential for further growth through its international ventures and infrastructure developments, with the Sarzha Grain Terminal representing a tangible example of how the company translates strategic intent into real-world outcomes that support global trade and regional development.
Conclusion
The construction of Sarzha Grain Terminal at Kuryk Port marks a significant milestone in Kazakhstan’s grain export capabilities and in the broader strategy of AD Ports Group to broaden its international footprint. The project’s phased capacity expansion—from 570,000 tonnes per year to a planned 1.5 million tonnes per year—reflects a deliberate approach to scaling operations in step with demand, market conditions, and corridor development along the Transcaspian International Transport Route. The $50 million-plus investment, split with AD Ports holding the controlling 51 percent stake and Semurg Invest holding 49 percent, demonstrates a balanced partnership designed to leverage both international capital and local market insight. With completion of phase one anticipated in the first half of 2026, Sarzha Grain Terminal is positioned to boost grain trade and handling at Kuryk Port, while serving as a catalyst for broader regional connectivity and trade integration. The project aligns with AD Ports Group’s multi-year expansion strategy and its commitment to sustainable innovation, enabling the group to reinforce its global position and contribute to resilient, efficient, and environmentally responsible supply chains in Central Asia and beyond. As the terminal progresses from construction to operation, it will likely become a critical node within the regional logistics ecosystem, enhancing Kazakhstan’s export capabilities and reinforcing the region’s role in global food trade.