WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Commerce marked a milestone last week as Wabtec Corporation signed a $4.2 billion agreement with the Government of Kazakhstan to deliver 300 locomotives, the largest rail equipment deal in history. The signing took place during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York City.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick called the deal proof of the Trump administration’s trade strategy. “Today’s record Locomotive Deal commercial agreement for the great American company Wabtec Corporation shows the economic prosperity that President Trump’s America First Trade Policy continues to deliver,” he said.
Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade William Kimmitt added that the contract highlights U.S. manufacturing strength. “American innovation, technology, and manufacturing are unmatched. We will continue to support manufacturing jobs across our nation and deliver on President Trump’s trade agenda that puts the American worker first.”
The contract, signed by Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Wabtec CEO Rafael Santana alongside U.S. officials, provides Kazakhstan Temir Zholy with 300 Evolution Series ES44Aci heavy-haul locomotive kits over the next decade. The deal is projected to support more than 11,000 American jobs.
Based in Pennsylvania, Wabtec has built a global reputation for locomotive technology, and officials said the agreement represents a win for U.S. competitiveness in the face of international rivals. The Department of Commerce credited its International Trade Administration Advocacy Center and U.S. Commercial Service with helping secure the bid.
“This landmark deal advances U.S. manufacturing jobs and accelerates growth, opportunity, and connectivity in America and Central Asia,” Lutnick said.
The record-setting contract underscores a growing push by U.S. officials to leverage government-to-government engagement in securing major overseas projects that align with American economic and strategic interests.
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