Trade between China and the Central Asian region reached an all-time high of more than $100 billion in 2025, according to official data from the Chinese government.
Based on statistics from China’s General Administration of Customs, total trade with the five Central Asian countries — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan — amounted to $106.3 billion last year. This marks a 12 percent increase over the previous year.
Improved Trade Structure
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun noted that the trade structure had improved, with a greater share of high-end products entering China from Central Asia.
In 2025, Chinese exports to the region — mainly machinery, electronics, and high-tech goods — reached $71.2 billion, an 11 percent increase year-on-year.
Meanwhile, imports from Central Asia totaled $35.1 billion, up 14 percent from 2024. These included oil, natural gas, and an expanding range of other goods, including minerals and agricultural products.
Supporting Events and Initiatives
According to the Chinese government, trade growth was supported by diplomatic and economic cooperation efforts, notably the China–Central Asia Summit held in Astana, Kazakhstan, in 2024. The summit was attended by President Xi Jinping and the leaders of all five Central Asian nations.
The progress of the Belt and Road Initiative has also contributed to expanding trade flows. Trade routes connecting China to Europe via Central Asia are being developed and enhanced under this program.
Investment and Sector Focus
China is actively involved in major industrial and infrastructure projects in the region. These include the extraction of minerals essential for clean technology, equipment manufacturing, and agricultural modernization.
Regional Shift
The data reflects a changing economic landscape in Central Asia. Historically dominated by Russia in the post-Soviet era, the region now counts China as its leading trade partner. The United States has also increased its interest in developing trade relations with resource-rich Central Asia.
Countries in the region are pursuing diversified international partnerships while continuing to expand economic ties with China.