2011年-世界发展银行全球_Performance_of_Transport_Corridors_in_Central_and_South_Asia___Measurements_2008-2009_55页_2mb

Summary of Performance of Transport Corridors in Central and South Asia (Measurements 2008-2009)

Core Content

This document presents a study conducted by the World Bank in 2008-2009 to assess the performance of key road transport corridors and border crossing points (BCPs) in Central and South Asia, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The study aims to identify challenges in transport corridor efficiency and provide recommendations for improving trade facilitation and transport connectivity in the region.

Main Objectives

• To evaluate the performance of transport corridors and BCPs.
• To identify obstacles to efficient freight and passenger movement.
• To support policy reforms and infrastructure investments that enhance regional integration and trade facilitation.
• To provide a basis for cooperation between governments, the private sector, and international stakeholders.

Key Findings

1. Transport Corridor Performance

• Efficient transport corridors are crucial for economic growth, trade expansion, and cost savings.
• The region has significant potential for freight transit, with an estimated capacity of 220 million tons in 2009, expected to grow to 400 million tons by 2020.
• Most trade and transport corridors were built during the Soviet era and now face fragmented controls, outdated infrastructure, and inefficiencies.

2. Logistics Performance Index (LPI)

• The LPI shows that Kazakhstan made the most significant improvements in logistics performance between 2007 and 2009.
• Kyrgyz Republic also showed notable progress, particularly in international shipments.
• Afghanistan and Tajikistan improved their LPI scores, but still lag behind other countries in the region.
• Customs and control procedures deteriorated in several countries, with perceived corruption increasing.

3. Border Crossing Challenges

• BCPs are characterized by multiple checks, low-quality services, outdated equipment, and frequent unofficial payments.
• These factors contribute to long transit times and increased transport costs.
• In some countries, such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz Republic, only loaded trucks are stopped for official checks, while TIR trucks are not exempt.
• Unofficial payments are a major concern and vary by country.

4. Physical and Non-Physical Barriers

• Physical barriers: Poor road infrastructure, missing transport links, and inadequate inter-modal facilities.
• Non-physical barriers: Inefficient procedures, unclear responsibilities among agencies, lack of harmonized legislation, and frequent stops by customs, police, and other authorities.

5. Transport Cost and Efficiency

• Transport costs are heavily influenced by the efficiency of operations rather than just infrastructure quality.
• Empty backhauls due to trade imbalances increase freight costs.
• 24-hour border services are often unavailable, leading to significant delays.

Key Recommendations

• Integrated Border Management: Encourage cooperation among border agencies to streamline processes and reduce delays.
• Performance Measurement Systems: Implement systems to establish benchmarks, track progress, and support dialogue between policymakers and the private sector.
• Infrastructure Investments: Coordinate road and corridor improvements with border management and logistics upgrades.
• Modernization of Customs and Border Procedures: Invest in automated systems and modern equipment to reduce processing times and corruption.
• Regional Cooperation: Promote a new Trade and Transport Agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan to eliminate the need for truck unloading and reloading at borders.

Survey Methodology

• The study involved on-site observations, driver interviews, and trip diaries.
• Data was collected over five consecutive 24-hour periods in 2008 and 2009.
• The methodology was supported and validated by local public and private sector partners.
• The study is part of the World Bank's ongoing efforts to improve trade logistics and transport efficiency in the region.

Regional Overview

• Landlocked countries in Central and South Asia have strategic potential for increasing freight transit.
• The region is affected by low economic density, long distances, and high divisions, which challenge efficient transport.
• CAREC, BOMCA, and TRACECA are key regional initiatives aimed at improving transport corridors and border management.

Supporting Initiatives

• The BOMCA program, supported by the EU, ADB, GTZ, and USAID, has tested joint customs control between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz Republic, and between Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
• The World Bank has supported customs modernization in Kazakhstan and introduced automated data systems in Afghanistan.
• The CAREC program focuses on corridor development and regional cooperation.

Conclusion

The performance of transport corridors in Central and South Asia is a critical factor in regional economic development. Despite some progress in logistics performance, the region still faces significant challenges related to border management, infrastructure, and corruption. Continued investment, cooperation, and performance monitoring are essential to unlock the full potential of these corridors and improve trade facilitation.