THE China National Petroleum Corp yesterday disclosed construction for the second phase of the China-Kazakhstan gas pipeline has begun in Kazakhstan.

The second phase of the pipeline, from Beyneu to Shymkent, has a length of 1,475 kilometers, with a designed annual capacity of 10 billion cubic meters. Its actual capacity is expected to hit 15 billion cubic meters, said CNPC, the project's leading operator.

The first phase of the pipeline was completed in 2009.

The CNPC said the construction of the Beyneu-Shymkent gas pipeline will help meet the energy needs and assist in the economic and social development of south Kazakhstan, as well as raise gas exports to China.