China’s expanding cooperation with Central Asian countries, particularly Uzbekistan, is emerging as a key driver for regional economic growth and connectivity. Under the “Central Asia + China” framework, Beijing and the five Central Asian states have deepened political, economic, and cultural ties in recent years, aligning with Uzbekistan’s foreign policy priorities and development goals.

Uzbekistan is actively pursuing multiple projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative aimed at enhancing transport infrastructure and logistics networks. These efforts include significant cross-border corridors such as the “China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan” highway and railway and the “Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan” railway, designed to reduce travel times, optimize logistics, and lower transportation costs. Additionally, the development of the “Southern Corridor,” linking China to Europe through Central Asia, Iran, and Turkey, is gaining prominence as a preferred overland route that avoids maritime crossings like the Caspian Sea. Uzbekistan views this corridor as crucial for expanding trade links between Central Asia, China, and Europe.

Economic forecasts suggest Central Asia’s combined gross domestic product (GDP) could reach $700 billion by 2030, with exports rising from $125 billion to $200 billion. Uzbekistan’s manufacturing sector, especially copper production and textile exports, is expected to contribute significantly to this growth. Trade between China and the region has consistently increased, with China exporting diverse goods, including machinery, electronics, textiles, and iron and steel. The collaboration also extends to emerging sectors such as technology and innovation. Following the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, China announced plans to establish an international AI cooperation center for SCO countries and to initiate 100 joint technology projects in the next three years, aiming to invigorate regional development and innovation.

Energy cooperation forms another pillar of the partnership. Uzbekistan seeks to improve energy efficiency in its oil and gas industries by leveraging Chinese expertise, particularly through collaboration with the China National Petroleum Corporation and construction firms specializing in energy-saving technologies. The country also has significant potential in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, and a rapidly expanding electric vehicle market. Joint ventures to develop large-scale clean energy projects and cross-border power transmission are expected to advance Uzbekistan’s energy security and foster local employment, while contributing to its ambition to become a regional exporter of green electricity.

Uzbekistan’s reserves of critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements represent additional areas for collaboration, given their importance to the green economy and technological manufacturing. Responsible development of these resources could strengthen supply chains and create new economic opportunities within the Belt and Road framework.

Overall, the “Central Asia + China” cooperation format is fostering increased trust and coordinated efforts to address regional challenges. Through infrastructure investment, technological partnerships, and enhanced connectivity, China and Central Asian countries aim to establish the region as a vital trade hub that supports sustained economic growth, political stability, and cultural exchange.