A high-level overview from Belarusian state media notes that Russia provides price reductions on rail shipments to Minsk. The commentary came during a Belarus-1 television program featuring the First Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications, Aleksey Lyakhnovich, who outlined how tariff decisions shape export logistics across the region.
Lyakhnovich stressed that rail tariffs are a central lever in moving Belarusian goods through Russia, representing a substantial share of the overall logistics costs. He estimated that roughly six in ten units of export cargo rely on this rail corridor, linking pricing structures directly to the competitiveness of Belarusian products on global markets. The discussion also underscored that the total transfer cost is influenced by port charges and other related factors, reinforcing the need for coordinated cost management across the transport chain.
Belarus is actively exploring routes and strategies to trim expenses, seeking corridors that offer more favorable rates. A joint commission with Russia has been formed to address tariff-related questions and to ensure alignment on pricing matters that affect cross-border freight flows. This cooperation aims to enhance predictability for exporters and reduce friction in bilateral trade channels.
According to Lyakhnovich, discounts available this year have varied from 10 to 40 percent, depending on the direction of shipment. He noted that Minsk received the most favorable reductions for certain cargo categories bound for the Saint Petersburg port complex, as well as for shipments along the North-South land route to ports serving Astrakhan and the wider Caspian region. These discounts are presented as strategic incentives to sustain trade activity through key maritime and overland gateways.
Earlier remarks from the Russian ambassador to Belarus highlighted that Belarusian exports to Russia reached record levels in 2022, rising by more than 40 percent. The growth helped offset income losses tied to the closure of some European markets, illustrating how regional transport corridors can absorb shifts in external demand and maintain export momentum.
In related public statements, officials acknowledged ongoing challenges in bilateral relations while emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue and pragmatic measures to support steady trade flows. The overarching message is that transparent pricing negotiations, shared data, and continuous coordination between Minsk and Moscow are essential for sustaining export activity and ensuring reliable access to major regional ports and logistics hubs.