The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission, in Partnership with the United States-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce (USACC) and Global Chamber present:

The Middle Corridor is an emerging transit route connecting economies from Central Asia to the South Caucasus and on into Eastern Europe. It is an industry-based conference that will discuss air cargo connectivity and port development in the Caspian basin, the Central Eurasia region, and beyond. This platform will allow importers, exporters, shippers, consignees, freight forwarders, and other industry players to exchange ideas and learn from one another about how to seize this important opportunity.

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The global pandemic and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war have significantly affected global supply chains. The armed conflict resulted in significant disruptions to international supply chains. As a result of international sanctions recently imposed on Russia, shippers have become hesitant to trade with Russia, and transport operators are wary of transiting Russian territories. Ukraine and the surrounding area in Russia have become a conflict zone, prompting companies to seek alternative routes.

Broadly speaking the trading community now faces challenges in cargo security, extensive delays at border crossings, and uncertainty about insurance coverage. Uzbek carriers reported that in March 2022 their trucks were stopped in the conflict zone, cargoes were looted, and drivers were detained. As drivers attempted to re-route, the traffic diversion increased the time required to cross borders, particularly in the Black Sea region. Compounding this problem is the uncertainty of whether cargo insurance would still be effective, as insurers typically add a clause that can waive their liability due to "act of war".