Russia's Landmark Fuel Export to Afghanistan
A first-of-its-kind rail shipment of 5,000 tonnes of diesel via Iran signals a new era in regional energy logistics, bypassing Western sanctions and solidifying the International North-South Transport Corridor.
Inaugural Shipment
Arrived Herat via Khaf-Herat Rail
Monthly Target
Projected volume capacity
Rail Investment
Final phase construction cost
The Supply Chain: From Russia to Herat
Explore the logistics of this new corridor. Click on the transit nodes below to view specific infrastructure details and operational context.
Select a Location
Click on a location in the route list to see specific details about infrastructure upgrades, rail links, and strategic importance.
Market Impact & Energy Economics
The corridor aims to stabilize Afghanistan's volatile energy market. Below is an analysis of current fuel prices and the projected volume scaling necessary to impact them.
Fuel Price Snapshot (Dec 2025)
USD EquivalentInsight: Diesel averages $0.96/L. Rail transport is expected to lower logistics costs compared to road transit, potentially stabilizing these figures.
Monthly Trade Volume (Tonnes)
Target AnalysisInsight: The initial 5,000t shipment is a "proof of concept." Scaling to the 30,000t target is critical for meaningful market impact.
The Strategic Triad: A "Sanction-Proof" Alliance
This corridor is more than trade; it is a geopolitical tool for three isolated entities to bypass Western markets. Hover over the cards below to reveal their strategic motivations.
Russia
The Exporter
Hover to reveal strategy
Strategic Goal
Expand energy footprint into Central Asia via the INSTC. Bypass the Suez Canal and Western oversight to reach new markets under sanctions.
Iran
The Bridge
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Strategic Goal
Advance the "Economy of Resistance". Generate non-oil revenue through transit fees and position itself as the indispensable connector between Moscow and Kabul.
Taliban
The Importer
Hover to reveal strategy
Strategic Goal
Diversify supply sources to reduce dangerous dependence on Pakistan. Secure reliable energy flow amidst diplomatic friction and border closures.
The Indian Connection: Chabahar Port
While not a direct party to this diesel shipment, India's strategic interests overlap significantly at the Chabahar Port. This port acts as a gateway for the INSTC, allowing India to bypass Pakistan for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Agreement
10-year agreement signed in 2024 to manage the Shahid-Behesti terminal.
Sanctions Waiver
U.S. waiver extended through April 2026, protecting operations.
Investment
$500 Million commitment to port and infrastructure upgrades.
Critical Risks
Investment Gap: Iran Rail
Political Fragmentation
Taliban split between Kabul pragmatists and Kandahar hardliners creates regulatory uncertainty.
Locomotive Deficit
Iran has only ~600 active locomotives, severely limiting freight capacity.
