SESRIC launched the 2026 edition of its flagship report titled “Transportation for Development in OIC Member Countries” at the 2nd OIC Conference of Transport Ministers, held on 11-12 February 2026 in İstanbul, Türkiye. Issued under the theme “Implications for Trade and Tourism & Challenges for Landlocked Countries”, the report provides a comprehensive assessment of transport systems in OIC countries, identifies gaps in infrastructure and services, highlights the role of transport in boosting economic development, trade, and tourism, and draws attention to transportation challenges of landlocked OIC countries.

The report underscores the vital role of transportation in economic growth, particularly for developing countries. It notes that the transport sector accounts for 64% of global oil demand, 28% of energy use, and 26% of CO₂ emissions. It calls for sustainable solutions such as expanded public transport, zero-emission vehicles, and reduced car dependence to support economic growth and advance the Sustainable Development Goals.

Transport networks in OIC countries have made progress, yet there is room for further development across all modes. Road length stands at 2.6 km per 1,000 people, rail coverage at 4.2 km per 1,000 km², and container port traffic at 78 TEU per 1,000 people, all below global averages. International air transport expanded, as revenue tonne-kilometres rose from 130 billion in 2022 to 163 billion in 2023.

Transport connectivity is essential for trade, competitiveness, and regional integration. While many OIC countries continue to address structural bottlenecks that affect intra-OIC trade and integration into global value chains, progress in this area offers important opportunities. Reducing freight costs and strengthening logistics performance remain key priorities. Enhanced transport corridors, ports, and multimodal networks, together with improved infrastructure, logistics services, border procedures, and corridor governance, can help lower trade costs and support sustainable growth.

OIC countries have significant potential for sustainable international tourism, supported by rich natural, cultural, and historical assets. Strengthening transport networks and improving coordination between the tourism and transport sectors can further boost this potential. The report recommends comprehensive national and regional strategies to enhance connectivity, simplify visa procedures, strengthen private sector engagement, and ensure effective stakeholder coordination to unlock tourism opportunities and promote regional integration.

The report also highlights that twelve countries in the OIC are landlocked developing countries that face distinct transport and development challenges. Long distances to ports, multiple border crossings, underdeveloped domestic transport infrastructure, and reliance on transit countries reduce competitiveness and trade potential. While regional initiatives in road and rail infrastructure have improved connectivity, missing links and ageing infrastructure continue to limit efficiency.

The report concludes that addressing these challenges requires coordinated investments in domestic and regional transport infrastructure, logistics, and trade facilitation, supported by public-private partnerships and international assistance. Strong collaboration with neighbouring transit countries and active participation in regional and international agreements are essential to enhance connectivity, reduce costs, and unlock trade and economic opportunities for landlocked OIC countries.

Online Electronic Version

• Transportation for Development in OIC Member Countries 2026: Implications for Trade and Tourism & Challenges for Landlocked Countries (English) (Arabic) (French)