China and Uzbekistan aim to raise bilateral trade from nearly $18 billion to $30 billion in the coming years. The countries will deepen cooperation in investment, energy, EVs, infrastructure, technology, agriculture and mineral processing.
China and Uzbekistan have agreed to raise their bilateral trade to $30 billion in the coming years, signalling a further expansion of economic and investment ties between the two countries. The target was discussed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek.
Bilateral trade between China and Uzbekistan approached $18 billion in 2025, providing a strong base for the new target. The two countries plan to increase mutual supplies of industrial and agricultural products and encourage greater participation by Uzbek companies in trade exhibitions and business activities in China.
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Investment cooperation is also expanding rapidly. The portfolio of ongoing joint investment projects has reached around $60 billion, while more than 6,000 joint ventures are operating in Uzbekistan. The scale of existing investment reflects China's growing role in Uzbekistan's industrial and economic development.
The leaders identified several sectors with potential for deeper cooperation, including energy, chemicals, metallurgy, construction materials, food production, transport, infrastructure and agriculture. High-technology industries and the digital economy were also highlighted as emerging areas for future collaboration.
Mining and the development and processing of mineral resources are expected to become additional growth areas. The two countries also agreed to encourage Chinese companies to participate more actively in establishing production facilities within joint industrial zones across Uzbekistan.
Electric vehicle manufacturing is another important area of cooperation. The partnership with Chinese automaker BYD was highlighted as a successful example of industrial and technological collaboration. Both sides supported plans to expand production capacity and increase localisation of EV manufacturing in Uzbekistan.
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Energy cooperation remains a major component of the relationship. Uzbekistan expressed interest in expanding partnerships with Chinese companies in both conventional and renewable energy, as well as projects involving the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
The countries also intend to strengthen cooperation in digital technologies, financial services, transport connectivity and regional infrastructure. These initiatives could support Uzbekistan's ambitions to diversify its economy and increase its integration with regional and global supply chains.
The latest agreement comes as China and Uzbekistan prepare to mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. Both leaders expressed confidence in further strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership and expanding economic cooperation.