Dmitry Evdokimov, Researcher of Quantitative Analysis and Economic Effects Department at the Gaidar Institute, explained in a commentary for Nezavisimaya Gazeta the strategic meaning of the route Vladivostok-Nakhodka-Vostochny Port under construction despite multiple increases in estimated costs and criticism from the Accounts Chamber.
He believes that this route is essential as a supportive corridor for Primorye. "It should relieve congestion on the overstressed routes that currently handle the main traffic to the ports of the Nakhodka hub of Artem-Bolshoy Kamen-Fokino-Nakhodka-Vrangel and on the approaches to Vostochny Port, where traffic is mixed: freight transport, commuter trips by residents and transit, while any congestion directly costs logistics time and money," said Dmitry Evdokimov.
The expert believes that the Vladivostok agglomeration and the Nakhodka transport and industrial hub will benefit the most from the construction. "There will be less heavy transit in urban areas, increased safety and more stable cargo delivery. This primarily applies to containers and imports to Siberia and the Far East, coal and mineral cargo, bulk oil/petroleum products, as well as supply flows for shipbuilding and industry in Primorye," he noted.
According to Evdokimov, the economic impact will come from reduced logistics costs. "The route will achieve maximum economic benefit when synchronized with the development of port facilities and rail access. Then, it will become part of a unified multimodal chain that will enhance the competitiveness of Far Eastern exports and imports," the expert emphasized.