Russia's $41B Arctic plan transforms Tiksi-Nayba into a global trade hub by 2040

The Russian government has approved a long-term development plan for 15 key Arctic settlements, including the Tiksi-Nayba urban cluster in Yakutia. The master plan, drafted on President Vladimir Putin’s instruction, outlines major infrastructure projects and environmental improvements through 2035 and beyond. The centrepiece of the strategy is a new deep-water port in Nayba. Designed to serve as the foundation for an international transport corridor, it will also create local jobs. By 2030, the baseline scenario includes building a seaport terminal there with a capacity of 1 million tons.

The plan also covers public space upgrades, renovations to schools, hospitals, cultural venues, and sports facilities. A new airport terminal, a passenger pier in Neelovo, and the Tiksi–Neelovo road are part of the project. Additionally, a fleet of water transport vessels will be acquired to support regional connectivity.

Environmental concerns are addressed through the removal of 12 sunken ships. Funding for the entire programme totals 41 billion rubles, with 3.3 billion rubles allocated for 2025–2027.

Looking further ahead, the optimistic scenario envisions a major transport and logistics hub in Russia’s Northeast by 2040. Cargo capacity at Nayba’s terminal would expand to 10 million tons from 2035, driven by hydrocarbon deposits and the Northeast Transport Corridor’s growth. The master plan sets concrete targets for Tiksi and Nayba’s modernisation by 2035. If fully implemented, it will reshape the region’s transport infrastructure, boost local employment, and improve living standards. The government’s investment reflects a long-term commitment to Arctic development.