Uzbekistan is considering establishing long-term supplies of aviation fuel from China as part of efforts to diversify imports and meet growing domestic demand for jet fuel. The issue was discussed during a meeting between Uzbekneftegaz Chairman Abdugani Sanginov and a Chinese delegation led by Ambassador to Uzbekistan Yu Jun. The talks covered cooperation in the oil and gas sector, ongoing investment projects and potential new areas of partnership.
One of the main issues discussed was the possibility of arranging long-term supplies of Jet A-1 aviation fuel from China. According to Uzbekneftegaz, such supplies would contribute to diversifying the country's sources of aviation fuel and establishing a more stable supply system. The parties discussed strengthening assistance from the Chinese Embassy in establishing direct cooperation between Uzbekneftegaz and major Chinese energy companies, including China National Aviation Fuel Group (CNAF) and Sinopec.
Uzbekneftegaz is already implementing several projects with Chinese companies across different segments of Uzbekistan's oil and gas industry. Existing cooperation covers geological exploration, well construction, oilfield services and the introduction of modern technologies. Chinese companies involved in these projects include CNPC, CCDC, BGP, Jereh and Honghua. During the meeting, the Uzbek and Chinese sides discussed further development of strategic cooperation and implementation of joint investment projects in the sector.
Specific volumes, prices or potential timelines for long-term Chinese aviation fuel supplies were not provided. The discussions come as Uzbekistan expects an increase in domestic demand for aviation fuel during the second half of 2026. Projected demand for jet fuel between July and December is expected to reach approximately 375,000 tons, representing an increase of 27%, according to figures from Uzbekistan's presidential press service.
The increase has been linked to a higher number of flights operating through Central Asia and Uzbekistan amid changes in regional and international air routes associated with the geopolitical situation. Uzbekistan plans to cover most of its aviation fuel requirements through domestic production. However, restrictions imposed by some partner countries on exports of petroleum products have led the country to seek additional sources of supply.
Uzbekistan is already importing aviation fuel from Georgia, Iraq and other markets to supplement domestic production. Uzbekneftegaz plans to produce 310,000 tons of aviation fuel by the end of 2026 as part of efforts to meet demand through domestic refining capacity.
The company's management has also instructed responsible officials to prepare proposals for increasing production of both aviation fuel and diesel fuel. Combined with potential imports, increased domestic production is intended to cover growing fuel requirements associated with aviation activity in Uzbekistan.
The proposed long-term cooperation with Chinese suppliers would provide an additional source of Jet A-1 alongside domestic production and existing imports from other countries. Following the talks, the parties are expected to continue work on establishing contacts with CNAF and Sinopec and assessing opportunities for long-term aviation fuel supplies from China.
