A major fire broke out on the territory of the Khorgos International Centre for Cross-Border Cooperation, resulting in the burning of 17 Kazakhstani trucks. The fire occurred on the side of the People's Republic of China (PRC), and an investigation is being carried out by the Chinese competent authorities.
WHAT HAPPENED AT THE BORDER
According to the Department for Emergency Situations (DES) of the Zhetysu Region, the fire occurred on 4 May 2026 in the border area on the Chinese side. No reports of the incident were received by emergency services numbers "101" or "112", as the site of the fire is outside Kazakhstan's jurisdiction.
The akimat (local administration) of the Panfilov District of the Zhetysu Region stated that the fire destroyed 17 Kazakhstani lorries.
WHO IS CONDUCTING THE INVESTIGATION
Since the incident occurred on the territory of the PRC, all inquiries are being conducted on the Chinese side. The DES of the Zhetysu Region reported that the circumstances and causes of the fire are being established by the competent authorities of China.
Regional authorities stated that owners and drivers of the burnt vehicles will be provided with legal and any possible assistance.
CONTEXT AND SIGNIFICANCE
The Khorgos International Centre for Cross-Border Cooperation is considered one of the key transport and logistics hubs on the border between Kazakhstan and China. A significant flow of freight traffic passes through the centre's territory.