Five weeks to transport goods from Istanbul to Amman? No, more like five days.
Turkish logistics operator Kizgin and its Jordanian partner Al Wafi have completed the first shipment from Istanbul to Amman via Iraq under the TIR system. It took them just five days, marking a major milestone in regional logistics.
The new land corridor presents a compelling alternative to the traditional maritime route, which typically takes four to five weeks.
This significant time saving (over 80%) opens the door to faster, more efficient and more reliable trade, unlocking new development opportunities for Turkish, Iraqi and Jordanian markets.
Kizgin Group General Manager Bestami Kizgin said, “We’re proud to be the first company to successfully test the Istanbul–Amman corridor via Iraq under the TIR system. The results exceeded our expectations. Fast, secure and reliable transport made this journey truly exceptional.”
Al Wafi Land Freight General Manager Hamza Khaled Mohammad Alshukhami said, “For years, trade along this route has been hindered by lengthy and complex procedures. The successful arrival of this truck is not just an operational milestone, it marks a major shift in international trade and a unique opportunity to strengthen commercial ties between Türkiye and Jordan. We deeply appreciate IRU and the TIR system for making this possible.”
IRU Senior Adviser for the Middle East Rami Karout said, “The activation of the TIR system in Iraq earlier this year was a turning point for trade between Europe and the Middle East. This new link between Istanbul and Amman is another milestone, demonstrating how goods can cross multiple borders smoothly, securely and efficiently.”
The TIR system went live in Iraq on 1 April 2025.
