Uzbekistan, China Sign Trade and Economic Protocol

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The ninth meeting of the Subcommittee on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China was held on April 15.

The event was co-chaired by Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan Ilzat Kasimov and Vice Minister of Commerce of China Li Cheng (Li Zhi).

During the meeting, the sides discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral trade development, strengthening investment cooperation, expanding transport and logistics partnership, as well as collaboration within the “China–Central Asia” format.

Sustained growth in trade turnover between the two countries was noted. In 2025, bilateral trade reached US$17.8 billion, while in the first quarter of 2026 it increased by 53.4% compared to the previous period. Special attention was given to expanding railway transportation and strengthening Uzbekistan’s role as a key logistics hub in the region.

The parties also reviewed the participation of Chinese financial institutions in joint projects and the introduction of innovative solutions aimed at improving the business environment and stimulating economic cooperation.

A separate segment of discussions focused on preparations for upcoming international events, including a business forum in Hong Kong scheduled for May 5–6 and the Third Interregional Forum in Xi’an set for May 20–22.

Following the meeting, the final protocol on trade and economic cooperation was signed within the framework of the Intergovernmental Committee.