Kazakhstan is weighing the possibility of sending part of its crude oil exports through the Baku–Supsa pipeline, a route that would link the country’s supplies from Azerbaijan to Georgia’s Black Sea coast. The move is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on existing corridors and expand access to global markets.

According to the Energy Ministry, the decision will depend on the route’s cost efficiency, operational benefits, and the willingness of relevant companies to secure commercial agreements.

At present, Kazakhstan ships about 80% of its oil abroad, relying mainly on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which handled nearly 55 million tons in 2024. Other channels include the Atyrau–Samara pipeline to Russia, the Atasu–Alashankou link to China, maritime shipments via Aktau, and limited rail deliveries toward Uzbekistan.

Kazakh oil reaches a wide range of buyers, including the European Union, China, Japan, South Korea, Türkiye, and the United States. In a related development, Hungary is preparing to receive its first cargo of Kazakh crude — 85,000 tons — via Croatia’s infrastructure, bound for the Százhalombatta refinery.

Energy analysts say that opening up the Baku–Supsa corridor could strengthen Kazakhstan’s ability to adapt to shifting market conditions and geopolitical pressures, giving it a more flexible export network in the years ahead.