Two checkpoints on the border of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will change their operating mode

Two key border checkpoints between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are set to change their operating procedures following amendments to a bilateral agreement. The legislation, ratified on July 9, 2026, upgrades the "Syrdarya – Malik" and the "Tselinny – Ok Oltin" checkpoints from bilateral to international status.

This upgrade means both checkpoints will now operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Previously, they were only open during daylight hours. The enhanced operational hours are expected to facilitate smoother and more efficient cross-border movement.

According to Kolesa.kz, the changes will allow both passenger cars and trucks to utilize these crossings. Specifically, the "Tselinny – Ok Oltin" checkpoint will accommodate passenger cars, empty trucks, and vehicles transporting oversized or heavy cargo. The "Syrdarya – Malik" crossing will be open to passenger cars and empty trucks.

However, it is important to note that commercial freight transport will continue to be prohibited at the "Syrdarya – Malik" location, despite the overall upgrade in status and operating hours. These changes aim to improve connectivity and streamline transit between the two Central Asian nations.