Nordwind Airlines and Kazan Airport held a pre-New Year's excursion for children from an orphanage.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Nordwind Airlines –

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Kazan International Airport and Nordwind Airlines continue to successfully introduce the younger generation to the exciting world of aviation: on the eve of the New Year, children from the Privolzhsky District Orphanage in Kazan participated in a unique career-oriented tour of the airport and the airline's aircraft.

On December 17, the meeting began with a tour of the terminals. The students learned about the development of civil aviation in the Republic of Tatarstan and the rich history of Kazan's air gateway.

The young aviators then checked in for their flight and went to pre-flight security, where they were shown how screening equipment works to search for explosive devices and weapons—each one had the chance to try their hand at being a security inspector.

Ahead of the tour, an Airbus A321 passenger jet and the Nordwind Airlines crew awaited the participants. They were given an introduction to the intricacies of piloting an aircraft and providing onboard service. The children also had the chance to experience being pilots: explore the cockpit, sit at the controls, and take photos with the captain.

"Aviation isn't just a job. It's a calling. We're thrilled to be involved in organizing social projects like these, and we hope that children, by becoming more familiar with the world of aviation, might take an important step toward choosing their future career," commented Olga Vavrishchuk, press secretary for Nordwind Airlines.

"By exposing children to the complex and unusual structure and working environment of a major airport, we provide the younger generation with a unique opportunity to gain new knowledge and insights into the world around them, as well as a boost for career guidance. It's especially gratifying to conduct such a tour on the eve of the New Year holidays, as today we've managed to fulfill more than one child's dream," commented Adel Gataullin, head of the press service at Kazan Airport.

The event was held with the participation of the Guardians of Childhood Foundation for the Support of Families and Children.

Nordwind Airlines is the base airline of Kazan Airport, is one of the largest airlines in Russia by passenger turnover and has an extensive route network of scheduled flights across the country.

Kazan International Airport is a socially oriented company. The company participates in a number of charitable projects. It collaborates with charitable foundations and provides financial and organizational support.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The International Transport Forum is introducing a digital ECMT permit system, replacing paper permits and logbooks with electronic versions.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: KMZ Cargo – KMZ CARGO –

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From 1 January 2026, the International Transport Forum will introduce the ECMT digital permit system, replacing paper permits and logbooks with electronic ones.

Access to the system is provided through a web portal and a mobile application with a Russian-language interface.

Requirements for obtaining a permit:

– it must be on board the cargo vehicle (TV) in digital form (on the driver’s mobile device) or as a printout;– it must be present between the loading points (after loading) and unloading points (after unloading) – for both loaded and empty trips associated with them.

Operating procedure:

– information about trips is entered into the system by the manager or driver; – the driver is required to present digital logbook data for the last 10 trips to regulatory authorities (on the device screen or in printed form).

According to the 2026 ECMT Multilateral Quota User Guide, in the case of a journey, the ECMT permit must be carried on board the vehicle between the loading point (once the vehicle is loaded) and the unloading point (when the vehicle is unloaded) for a laden journey or an empty journey that precedes or follows a laden journey.

In the ECMT digital permit system, control bodies display information on control results electronically.

Transport and logistics

Publication date: 12/17/2025

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

VAT 22%.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: KMZ Cargo – KMZ CARGO –

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We would like to inform you about an important change.

Effective January 1, 2026, due to amendments to Russian tax legislation, our company will apply a value-added tax (VAT) at a rate of 22% to all freight forwarding services.

We would like to draw your attention to the fact that, under the current agreement, the pricing principle for our services remains the same and complies with legal requirements.

How are prices for services now determined?

▫️The base price of services is indicated excluding VAT.▫️The total amount to be paid is formed as the base price plus VAT at the rate in effect on the day the service is provided.

Publication date: 12/17/2025

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

We are already seventeen – NordStar Airlines is celebrating its birthday.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Nordstar Airlines –

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NordStar Airlines is celebrating its 17th anniversary. December 17, 2008, is considered the airline's first day of operations. The new company's founding gave impetus to the development of air travel from the Arctic city of Norilsk to the mainland and further expanded the geography of flights from its base airports of Domodedovo and Krasnoyarsk. Over the past 17 years, the airline has come a long way from a small carrier with just three aircraft to a major Russian airline, expanding its production capacity, expanding its fleet, and today offers its passengers one of the most extensive route networks, and for passengers from Norilsk, perhaps the largest route network in the airport's history – 20 scheduled destinations throughout Russia.

NordStar Airlines is annually ranked among Russia's largest air carriers, with passenger traffic exceeding 1 million. In October 2025, the airline carried its millionth passenger, confirming the popularity of its routes, passenger trust, and high level of service. Today, NordStar Airlines flies to over 45 destinations within Russia, covering many regions of the country.

In 2025, NordStar Airlines expanded its presence in the Norilsk Industrial Region by opening two airline ticket and service sales offices in Norilsk and Talnakh.

In the fall of 2025, the frequent flyer loyalty program was completely revamped. The program became clearer and more beneficial for passengers, replacing traditional miles with Stars. One Star is equivalent to one ruble and can be used to pay for airline tickets. Passengers also gained access to an expanded list of privileges, from access to premium lounges to special offers.

NordStar Airlines is actively investing in developing its internal competencies. Its engineering and technical staff independently perform complex aircraft maintenance, ensuring high levels of safety and efficiency. In 2025, the airline opened its own Aviation Training Center. It trains future pilots and flight attendants, and provides advanced training for existing employees. This is an important step in building a sustainable talent base and maintaining a high level of onboard service.

"Our seventeenth anniversary is not only a source of pride but also a starting point for new achievements. NordStar's immediate plans include expanding its route network, implementing digital solutions, and improving operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Seventeen years is a milestone when it's especially important to remain true to our chosen course and continue to develop. I'd like to express special gratitude to our passengers. The trust expressed in every ticket issued is our main focus and motivation to move forward," noted Leonid Mokhov, CEO of NordStar Airlines.

On the airline's birthday, passengers can expect pleasant surprises on board and at sales offices in Norilsk, with the biggest gift being a festive airfare sale. Tickets to and from Norilsk are available at unprecedented rates – starting from 17,000 rubles for round-trip travel to Moscow, Novosibirsk, Abakan, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Sochi, Mineralnye Vody, Ufa, Krasnodar, and Chelyabinsk from January 20, 2026, to April 10, 2026. Passengers from other cities will also be able to enjoy festive fares of 1,700 rubles one-way. A full list of participating routes, flight dates, and other terms and conditions can be found on the website. www.nordstar.ru in the Special Offers section.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

NordStar Airlines has begun selling subsidized tickets.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Nordstar Airlines –

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NordStar Airlines signed an Agreement with the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) for the provision of subsidies for 2026 and opened the sale of air tickets at subsidized rates in accordance with the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 1780 of October 25, 2023, and the Decision of the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) "On the procedure for providing subsidies No. 22-68866-00363-R."

Subsidized tickets are available on NordStar flights from Norilsk to Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Ufa, Sochi, Gelendzhik, Krasnodar, and Mineralnye Vody, as well as in the opposite direction, for flights starting January 1, 2026.

Citizens of the Russian Federation under 23 years of age, women over 55 and men over 60, cadets of military educational institutions of higher education of the Russian Ministry of Defense over 23 years of age holding a standard vacation pass, persons with Group I disabilities and their accompanying persons, disabled children, as well as persons accompanying disabled children, and persons with Group II and III disabilities from childhood are eligible to purchase subsidized tickets. In addition, members of large families are eligible for the special fare upon presentation of supporting documents. According to established rules, one passenger may purchase up to four one-way tickets, up to two round-trip tickets, or two one-way tickets and one round-trip ticket.

Detailed information on the categories of passengers eligible for a subsidy, as well as a full list of supporting documents and a list of them, can be found on the airline's website. www.nordstar.ru in the Subsidized Transportation section.

Starting this year, you can purchase subsidized tickets at NordStar sales offices in Norilsk and Talnakh. This isn't just convenient, it's reliable: airline specialists will assist with the process, advise on all terms and conditions, and promptly verify documents confirming eligibility. Sales offices in Norilsk are becoming the primary point of contact for passengers, where everyone can receive personalized attention and confidence in the accuracy of their purchase. Subsidized tickets can also be purchased from other accredited agencies and through the NordStar Contact Center.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Nordwind Airlines is the winner of Pulkovo Awards 2025.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Nordwind Airlines –

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Nordwind Airlines was awarded the Pulkovo Awards in the category "Most Dynamically Developing Russian Airline".

For Nordwind Airlines, this award is a logical continuation of its growth. The carrier was already recognized last year. Pulkovo Awards for outstanding contribution to passenger traffic development.

In 2025, Nordwind Airlines will operate flights to 20 destinations from Pulkovo Airport, with passenger traffic exceeding 1.7 million. This confirms the high demand for flights and sustainable development.

The Pulkovo Awards were established by Pulkovo Airport in 2024. They are presented to airlines and tour operators for their contribution to the development of air travel and tourism.

We thank Pulkovo Airport for their high rating and our passengers for their trust. We continue to grow, open new destinations from the Northern Capital, and move forward with you!

Nordwind Airlines is one of Russia's largest airlines by passenger turnover and boasts an extensive network of scheduled flights across the country. Its hubs are Sheremetyevo, Pulkovo, Sochi, Kazan, and Makhachkala. With flexible ticket prices, convenient flight schedules, and loyalty program bonuses, flying with us is a great way to start your trip, whether you're a business traveler or just want to enjoy your planned vacation.

Nordwind Airlines: – was awarded the Skytrax World Airline Award in the category "Best Russian Carrier for Resort Destinations 2021." – strengthened its position as the favorite at the Skyway Service Award 2022, winning the nomination "Best Airline in the International Tourist Charter Transportation Category." – was recognized as the winner in the nomination "Best Interregional Air Carrier for Domestic Tourism Development" at the Russian Business Travel Awards in 2023 and 2024.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

December 15, 2025. 400 cruises in Russia with discounts of up to 15%. New Year's Fair promotion: 28 ships and 21 departure cities for your 2026 trip.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Infoflot Cruise Center – Infoflot Cruise Center –

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Dear friends,

From December 15, 2025, to January 13, 2026, we invite you to our New Year's Cruise Fair! Explore over 400 routes along the Volga, Don, and Kama rivers, to the Solovetsky Islands, and to Lake Baikal in summer, with discounts of up to 15%.

21 departure cities: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara, Saratov, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Gorodets, Zavidovo, Perm, Rostov-on-Don, Volgograd, Astrakhan, Petrozavodsk, Cherepovets, Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Dudinka, Ufa and Ulan-Ude.

Motor ships: "Mustai Karim", "Nikolai Zharkov", "Maxim Gorky", "Alexander Pushkin", "Konstantin Korotkov", "Leo Tolstoy", "Mstislav Rostropovich", "Nizhny Novgorod", "Nikolai Chernyshevsky", "Saint Petersburg", "Alexander Radishchev", "Alexander Suvorov", "Vissarion Belinsky", "Georgy Zhukov", "Georgy Chicherin", "Zosima Shashkov", "Konstantin Simonov", "Lenin", "Leonid Sobolev", "Mikhail Frunze", "Rus", "Semyon Budyonny", "Sergey Kuchkin", "Konstantin Fedin", "Felix Dzerzhinsky", "Yuri Andropov", "Kronstadt" and the hovercraft "Biryusa".

Discounts of up to 15% are valid on selected cruises for the 2026 navigation season. The cruise prices on our website include the current promotional offer for this voyage; for new bookings only, the offer cannot be combined with other discounts and promotions specified for the voyage. Two payment options: 100% during the promotional period (from December 15, 2025 to January 13, 2026) or 70% before January 13, 2026, with the remaining 30% due 45 days before the cruise.

The operating company reserves the right to change the list of flights and the amount of the discount.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Time is running out: airlines are seeking a new deadline to “legalize” their imported fleet.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: KMZ Cargo – KMZ CARGO –

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Airlines are asking for special status for 400 Airbus and Boeing aircraft. The issue isn't leasing, but rather guarantees for the stability of key cargo and passenger routes.

The Air Transport Operators Association (ATO) has appealed to the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance to extend the validity of government decree No. 412, a key industry regulation that ensures the legal operation of imported aircraft. This was reported by Vedomosti, citing the association's letter dated December 4.

The document, which allows Russian airlines not to return Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer aircraft to foreign lessors and establishes a special payment procedure, was initially valid until the end of 2024, but was later extended until December 31, 2026. The Association of Air Transport Operators (AEVT), without specifying a specific deadline, insists on a further extension, emphasizing that foreign aircraft remain the backbone of passenger transportation in Russia, and a significant portion of them were acquired through leases.

A Ministry of Transport representative confirmed receipt of the request and promised to respond. Aeroflot, Ural Airlines, Smartavia, and Azur Air, as well as the Ministry of Finance, did not comment on the publication's inquiries at the time of publication. Resolution No. 412 serves as the legal basis for managing imported aircraft under sanctions. It not only froze demands for the return of aircraft but also introduced a special payment mechanism through ruble-denominated Type C accounts in Russian banks. Furthermore, the document allows aircraft to be serviced and repaired without the approvals and original spare parts from Western manufacturers that are normally required. Export of such aircraft is permitted only with the approval of the government's Commission for Control over Foreign Investments.

While the decree is in effect, the insurance settlement process continues, transferring ownership of the aircraft from foreign lessors to Russian entities. A key role here is played by NLK-Finance, a leasing company under the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya), which purchases the aircraft and leases them to domestic air carriers. This frees the airlines from claims under previous leasing agreements and insurance policies. The transaction is partially financed by funds from the National Welfare Fund, issued to NLK at 1.5% per annum for 15 years, with participating airlines also contributing their profits to the purchase.

According to Reuters, approximately 400 aircraft belonging to Western lessors remained in Russia after the imposition of sanctions. By mid-2025, according to Kommersant, settlements had been completed or were in the final stages for 208 aircraft, with the total cost of this process exceeding 460 billion rubles. Aeroflot Group, for example, plans to complete transactions for 36 aircraft by the end of 2025, totaling $1.1 billion.

Experts consider the issue of extending the decree strategic for the industry. A source at one airline told Vedomosti that such a decision is inevitable. S7 Airlines, however, sees no reason for disruptions to its flight schedule even if the document is not extended, citing its own experience in resolving the legal status of its fleet. Oleg Panteleev, Executive Director of the Aviaport agency, believes extending the mechanism for another three years is justified, but considers an indefinite extension inappropriate. He believes that a civilized legal framework for the current situation is necessary, especially in light of Rostec's statements that foreign aircraft manufacturers are unlikely to return to the Russian market and that the future of domestic air travel lies with a fleet of Russian aircraft.

As a reminder, Russian cargo airlines are predicting the risk of a complete grounding of their aircraft and forced withdrawal from the market within the next three to five years. Market participants voiced this assessment at a roundtable discussion at the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation, highlighting a range of critical issues: a rapidly shrinking and aging fleet, a severe shortage of spare parts and personnel, lengthy repair queues, and unequal competition with foreign carriers. LR

Read more:http://logirus.ru/nevs/transport/time_running out_airlines_are seeking_a new_deadline_for_legalization_of_import_fleet.html

Publication date: 12/15/2025

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

December 12, 2025: Nile Light Cruise. A new offering from Sozvezdie. Explore Egypt's iconic sights on cruises between Aswan and Luxor: 4/5 days, starting from $480.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Infoflot Cruise Center – Infoflot Cruise Center –

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Dear friends,

We are pleased to announce that the "Classic Nile Cruises" program, part of the "Discovering the World with Constellation" project, now offers only the cruise portion of the tour.

Nile Light Cruises are 4- or 5-day cruises between Aswan and Luxor on the Jaz Al Qassida, during which you will sail along the great river, the cradle of ancient Egyptian civilization, and see the iconic sights of Egypt:

Luxor is an open-air museum housing approximately a third of all ancient Egyptian monuments, including the legendary Karnak Temple and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the tombs of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings, and the stone Colossi of Memnon. Aswan is the perfect place to experience the rhythm of the great river. It is home to the magnificent Aswan Dam and the romantic Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Edfu is the best-preserved temple of ancient Egypt, dedicated to the god Horus, the patron of pharaonic power. Kom Ombo is an architectural phenomenon: a double temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. Its terraces offer stunning views of the Nile.

CHOOSE A NILE LIGHT CRUISE

About the ship Jaz Al Qassida:

By December 2025, the motor ship Jaz Al Qassida

The ship accepts only 56 guests on board, and throughout the entire journey you will be surrounded by the attention and care of our experienced cruise management.

Full board accommodation, Russian-language service, and an evening program with a national twist will allow you to relax and enjoy the majestic Nile in the most comfortable conditions.

The onboard restaurant offers international, Egyptian, and Eastern cuisine. The menu is available in Russian.

You can also enjoy the open sun deck with a swimming pool and bar. For an additional fee, you can relax in the massage parlor—your own oasis of tranquility on board. The music and aromas of the East will help you forget your everyday worries.

We would like to note that within the framework of the full Classic cruise on the Nile"In addition to the cruise portion, you can spend two action-packed days in Cairo: see the only surviving wonder of the world – the Great Pyramid of Giza, the majestic Sphinx, go on a tour of the pharaohs' treasury – the Egyptian Museum, and relax for three days at a hotel in Hurghada on the Red Sea coast.

On Nile Light Cruises, you'll enjoy all the benefits of the "Discover the World with Constellation" project:

An intimate atmosphere – the Jaz Al Qassida cruise ship will be at the sole disposal of Sozvezdie guests for the duration of the cruise; an all-inclusive package with a full range of services – cruise, full excursion program, tips, medical insurance, and visa support (if needed); support, care, and attention from the Sozvezdie group leader and accompanying staff throughout the entire route, as well as assistance with any questions onboard; fully Russian-language service – an informational chat with pre-cruise preparation, excursions with Russian-speaking guides, an onboard newspaper, and a daily program in Russian.

Cruise programs:

DAY 1

LUXOR

Check-in onboard the Al Qassida. Lunch and dinner on board.

You can spend the day getting to know the ship or relaxing on the open deck by the pool. In the evening, the sunset over the Nile will create a magical atmosphere for the first day of the cruise.

DAY 2

LUXOR

Breakfast on board. Excursion along the West Bank of the Nile: visit the Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon, and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut.

Lunch on board. Excursion along the east bank of the Nile: visit to the Temple of Karnak.

Accommodation in a cabin of your choice on the Jaz Al Qassida motor ship; Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including soft drinks during meals; excursions as per the tour program, accompanied by Russian-speaking guides; transfers on comfortable buses during the excursion program; support from the management at all stages of the trip: meeting and assistance upon arrival and departure as per the program; medical insurance (for Russian citizens up to and including 64 years of age); an entertainment program on board the motor ship and an onboard newspaper in Russian; tips for the staff.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Cargo return formula: Russian Railways needs to sell not just transportation, but a complete logistics product with a single document and tariff.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: KMZ Cargo – KMZ CARGO –

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Alevtina Kirillova, CEO of Eurasian Agrologistics, proposed a package of concrete measures to Russian Railways and operators: from special rates for short hauls to one-stop-shop rates, taking into account China's experience with subsidies.

To stem the outflow of freight to road transport, Russian Railways needs to collaborate with operators to create ready-to-sell end-to-end logistics products with fixed long-term rates. Alevtina Kirillova, CEO of the Eurasian Agrologistics Autonomous Non-Profit Organization, proposed this initiative at the "Transport Services Market: Interaction and Partnership" conference.

In her opinion, the development of comprehensive turnkey offers is a necessary condition for retaining clients, especially in light of the growing tariff burden: from 2024 to 2025, tariffs increased by 13.8%, and for 2026, an increase of another 18% is planned, plus a 2% increase in VAT.

The proposal is based on an analysis of the factors that determine shipper selection. Besides cost, key factors include predictability of delivery times, ease of one-stop shopping, and the ability to obtain a single rate for the entire supply chain. Rail is often inferior to road transport today in terms of flexibility, speed of shipment organization, and transparency of final terms, especially over distances of 500 to 3,000 km, where competition is most intense, noted Alevtina Kirillova.

The expert's package of specific measures for implementing this approach includes several areas. The primary focus is the development and promotion of end-to-end tariff rates across different modes of transport. To ensure competition on short haul routes, it is proposed to introduce special reduced rates for distances of up to 500 km. Digitalization and simplification of interactions are also considered critical: single-document processing, expedited procedures, and an expanded package of related services (storage, customs, insurance).

As a financial support tool, Alevtina Kirillova proposed considering dynamic subsidy mechanisms for strategic products (metals, chemicals), using the adapted experience of China, which actively subsidizes its supply chains. However, the Chinese system has its own internal contradictions and barriers that are important to consider, the expert noted. In particular, subsidies often operate within established limits, which may be exhausted by the end of the year.

Furthermore, there is a practice whereby Chinese logistics platforms transfer funding originally allocated for shipments to Russia to transit shipments to Europe via alternative routes, such as the Trans-Caspian route, which bypasses Russia. Thus, some potential subsidies, which could have benefited Russian railway infrastructure, are lost.

Despite these difficulties, the expert insists that the approach of active and flexible government participation in shaping the economics of logistics corridors holds promise. Adapting this approach, she believes, could help develop other international routes involving Russia, making rail transport more cost-competitive for key shippers, Alevtina Kirillova concluded.

As a reminder, the Association of Sea Trade Ports (ASOP) has launched an initiative to standardize the handling capacities of Russian seaports. The association believes this will help capture the growing volume of spot contracts and redirect cargo from road to rail. LR

Read more:http://logirus.ru/nevs/transport/formula_for_return_of_cargo_rzhd_need_to_sell_not_transportation_but_ready_logistics_product_with_single.html

Publication date: 12/11/2025

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.