Uzbekistan and China have signed a final Protocol on Trade and Economic Cooperation under the auspices of the Intergovernmental Committee, concluding the 9th meeting of the Uzbekistan–China Subcommittee on Trade and Economic Cooperation.



The meeting was co-chaired by Ilzat Kasimov, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, and Ling Ji, Vice Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.
Both sides held detailed discussions on expanding trade, strengthening investment cooperation, improving transport and logistics connectivity, and enhancing strategic engagement within the “China–Central Asia” framework.
Source: Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan
Officials noted a strong upward trend in bilateral trade, which reached $17.8bn in 2025, while trade increased by 53.4% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
Key attention was given to expanding rail transport links and reinforcing Uzbekistan’s role as a regional logistics hub. The discussions also covered increased participation of Chinese financial institutions in joint ventures and the introduction of innovative solutions to improve the business environment and support cross-border economic activity.
The parties also reviewed preparations for upcoming events, including the Business Forum in Hong Kong scheduled for May 5–6 and the Third Interregional Forum in Xi’an on May 20–22.
Source: Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan
Earlier, Uzbekistan and Chinese financial institutions discussed expanding cooperation in investment and infrastructure financing, focusing on accelerating joint projects and strengthening financial ties. During talks with representatives of the Export-Import Bank of China and the China-Eurasian Economic Cooperation Fund, the sides reviewed ongoing cooperation and outlined steps to speed up implementation of current initiatives.
They also highlighted preparations for the Uzbekistan–China and SCO countries Economic Forum, scheduled for June 16 as part of the 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum, which is expected to serve as a key platform for attracting investment and deepening economic engagement.