Hong Kong to deepen Central Asia ties with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan trade mission

The mission follows earlier logistics push as trade and investment links expand.

Hong Kong is stepping up engagement with Central Asia as Chief Executive John Lee leads a trade mission to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in June, according to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).

The move follows earlier efforts to strengthen economic links with Central Asia, including cooperation in transport and logistics.

Kazakhstan, the region’s largest economy with GDP exceeding $2.35t (US$300b) in 2025, continues to position itself as a trade and logistics hub linking China and Europe.

It is also expanding digital infrastructure, including data centre projects aimed at developing its regional technology capabilities.

Uzbekistan, Central Asia’s most populous country, has maintained annual growth above 5% and continues to advance reforms, including foreign exchange liberalisation, customs streamlining, and broader digitalisation of trade processes.

HKTDC Chairman Frederick Ma said the delegation will cover multiple sectors and support business discussions in both markets.

He noted that Kazakhstan is Hong Kong’s largest trading partner in Central Asia and a key export market, whilst Hong Kong ranked fourth amongst Asian net investors in the country as of January 2026. 

Financial ties have also deepened, including a dual listing involving Hong Kong and Kazakhstan last year.

HKTDC Director of Research Bruce Pang said Hong Kong can provide financial and professional services support as companies expand into data centres and artificial intelligence-related projects in the region.

In Uzbekistan, HKTDC Principal Economist Alice Tsang said opportunities are emerging in infrastructure and logistics, supported by ongoing improvements in investment conditions, customs processes, and regulatory frameworks.

She added that Hong Kong firms could explore early-stage partnerships or manufacturing bases in Uzbekistan to support regional expansion.

China remains Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner, accounting for over 20% of total trade, whilst Kazakhstan’s trade with China reached $382.35b (US$48.8b) in 2025, representing 46% of its regional trade turnover, according to HKTDC data.

The council said rising trade and investment flows are expected to support demand for Hong Kong’s financial and professional services, including cross-border financing, wealth management, legal, and compliance support.

($7.83 = US$1)