Central Asia Is Becoming a New Center of Growth
Central Asia is strengthening its position as one of the fastest-developing regions of Eurasia, notes Ervin Turgunov, Head of the Department at the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
The region is experiencing growing trade relations, developing industrial value chains, and forming a modern regulatory framework for long-term cooperation. Corridors stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Tien Shan Mountains are becoming the foundation of the region’s future industrial map.
Ahead of the Russia–Central Asia Summit, the countries of the region are focusing on infrastructure, industry, energy, and technology.
Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Between January and August 2025, trade turnover between the two countries increased by 15%, reaching USD 3.03 billion. Joint projects are valued at more than USD 7 billion. Over 1,100 companies with Kazakh capital operate in Uzbekistan, while Kazakhstan hosts about 5,500 companies with Uzbek investment.
Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Uzbek exports to Tajikistan showed double-digit growth in 2025. In 2024, total freight traffic between the two countries reached around 10 million tons. Air connections and the passenger train Dushanbe–Tashkent were restored. A joint investment company with a capital of USD 100 million was established.
Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded USD 1.14 billion. A cross-border zone “Shavat–Dashoguz” was established. Total freight traffic reached 1.11 million tons. In Andijan, repairs of Turkmen railway wagons have been organized. Around 200 enterprises with Turkmen capital currently operate in Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Between January and August 2025, trade turnover amounted to nearly USD 600 million, increasing by 12–13%. Exports from Uzbekistan grew by 80%. Rail transport also demonstrated double-digit growth.
The legal and regulatory framework supports regional development. With Kazakhstan, a protocol on the CIS free trade zone is in force; with Tajikistan, a 2022 Declaration of Friendship is in effect. With Turkmenistan, agreements were signed on the “North–South” and “East–West” transport corridors. With Kyrgyzstan, more than 200 agreements have been concluded.
Central Asia is gradually transforming from a “geography” into an “economy.” Integrated regulations, transport corridors, and growing investment are shaping a new center of power in Eurasia.
ORIENT
Russia intends to use the upcoming summit to strengthen cooperation in energy, transport, and digital services.
