The volume of mutual trade among Central Asian countries reached $12.3 billion in 2025, an increase of nearly twofold compared to 2020, according to Eurasian Development Bank (EDB).
Kazakhstan remains the largest participant in mutual trade, accounting for over half (54%) of all intra-regional goods supplies, totaling $6.6 billion. While Uzbekistan is the key sales market, the fastest growth in supplies was recorded to Kyrgyzstan—increasing nearly three times to reach $1.7 billion.
Main export commodities: Grain products (18%), ferrous metals (13%), oil and petroleum products (8%), sunflower oil (7%), and beverages (3%).
Uzbekistan ranks second in supply volumes with a 26% share ($3.2 billion). its most active growth in supplies was observed toward Kazakhstan, increasing 2.1 times. Main export commodities: Vehicles and parts (14%), vegetables and fruits (11%), plastic products (5%), fertilizers (4%), and clothing (3%).
Turkmenistan has significantly intensified its participation in intra-regional trade: supplies grew 2.8 times to $1.3 billion, increasing the country’s share to 11%. Neighboring Uzbekistan is the key market, receiving approximately 80% of goods. Top export categories: Natural gas (70%) and electricity (8%).
Kyrgyzstan exported $0.9 billion to other Central Asian nations (a 7% share). Supplies to Uzbekistan grew 2.7 times to reach $0.4 billion. Main export items: Unprocessed precious metals (37%), coal (11%), plastic products (9%), and dairy products (4%).
Tajikistan accounts for 3% of intra-regional exports ($0.4 billion). Main export commodities: Zinc ores (24%), lead ore (22%), copper (5%), and electricity (4%).
What Drove This Growth?
- Low Starting Base: In previous years, the share of intra-regional trade did not exceed 5% of the region’s total global turnover.
- Strengthened Cooperation: Economic collaboration at the bilateral level and trade facilitation measures have improved, as reflected in the growth of the OECD Trade Facilitation Index.
The rapid expansion of mutual trade demonstrates that Central Asia is gradually emerging as an independent regional market with strengthening internal economic ties. The current level of trade represents only a fraction of the region’s potential. Further removal of barriers, improved transport connectivity, and deeper industrial cooperation could significantly accelerate intra-regional turnover.
According to EDB analysts, based on UNCTAD-WTO data, the potential for increasing intra-regional trade in Central Asia is estimated at $4 billion by 2029—roughly one-third of the current turnover. /// nCa, 18 May 2026