On October 10, 2025, the temporary checkpoint Lesozavodsk, located in Primorsky Krai, officially began operating on the Russian-Chinese border. Its opening became part of a large—scale infrastructure project - the construction of an underwater section of a cross-border gas pipeline across the Ussuri River.
According to FGKU Rosgranstroy, the new point was created on the basis of an order from the Russian Ministry of Transport and will function as a mixed cargo and passenger crossing. The main purpose of its launch was the need for logistical support for the construction of an underwater section of the gas pipeline within the framework of an interstate agreement between Russia and China.
Although the checkpoint has a temporary status, its significance goes beyond the scope of the current project. It can partially compensate for the load that previously fell on the Markovo automobile checkpoint, which has been closed since 2019 for reconstruction. Despite expectations of the resumption of Markovo operations by the end of 2025, the new crossing at Lesozavodsk has already taken over part of the cargo flows.
It is also noted that the new point will serve both the transportation of materials and equipment for the construction of the gas pipeline, as well as passenger transportation. Thus, its value may temporarily expand depending on the needs of the region and the pace of work at the facility.
The border infrastructure continues to develop actively, especially in the eastern direction. The increase in the number of crossings with China is due not only to the growth of trade turnover, but also to the implementation of major energy and logistics projects.
The launch of the Lesozavodsk temporary checkpoint underscores the strategic importance of cooperation with China in the framework of energy and transport integration. The gas pipeline project for which it was created is scheduled to be completed by 2027, which makes the next two years key in the logistical preparation for the commissioning of the facility.
