Construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is progressing, with work currently taking place on 28 of the 29 planned tunnels and 47 of the 50 bridges along its approximately 305-kilometer Kyrgyz section. According to Kyrgyz Railways, a partner in the project, about 22 percent of the total construction work is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Tunnel excavation is currently 21.5 percent complete, earthworks are 67 percent complete, and bridge pile foundations are 95 percent complete. The deputy director general of the project noted that the first tunnel, named “Kosh-Dobo-2,” was fully excavated in August, and the installation of the first bridge structures is anticipated in 2027. The railway is scheduled to begin operations in 2031, though contractors aim to finish the project ahead of schedule.
Kyrgyzstan also announced plans to begin construction on a new airport in Manas designed to handle air cargo. This facility is expected to play a critical role in an extensive air, rail, and road freight network, as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway will run through Manas.
Regional Developments Around Central Asia
In addition to the railway project, Beijing recently hosted a signing ceremony for the Central Asia and Caucasus Private Equity Fund, co-sponsored by several international investment organizations. The fund aims to invest in businesses throughout Central Asia and the Caucasus, although specific details about its capitalization and investment schedules have yet to be disclosed.
Separately, the Kyrgyz Marketing Association and the Tajikistan Advertising Association signed memorandums of understanding with the China Advertising Association to enhance collaboration in advertising practices, including joint conferences, enhancing investment, and facilitating entry for Chinese companies into Central Asian markets.
In Kazakhstan, the China Energy Engineering Corporation has signed a contract for a 700 MW solar power project in the Almaty Region that will feature high-efficiency solar modules to boost production. Meanwhile, the state-owned China State Construction Engineering Corporation is set to lead the development of Iconic Complex in Alatau City, with plans to conclude by late 2029.
Kazakhstan’s PTC Holding entered a strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese freight company International Freight Trains to amplify cross-border freight services. FlyArystan, a budget airline, also launched direct flights between Astana and Yining, China, expanding its routes in the region.
In Uzbekistan, ADM Global is commencing a $100 million upgrade of its factory to produce hybrid and electric models from Chinese brands. The state enterprise Uzkimyosanoat has initiated a partnership with China Tianchen Engineering Corporation for a project focused on ammonia and urea production, utilizing deep-coal processing techniques.
As for Kyrgyzstan, officials met with executives from Ganfeng Lithium Group, the world’s largest lithium producer, discussing potential investments in lithium mining, a resource deemed critical by major economies. In Tajikistan, new agreements were signed to enhance educational cooperation and build laboratories, indicating a strengthening of relations with China in various sectors.
Looking ahead, the ongoing construction of the railway and the development of complementary infrastructure suggest a trajectory of continued investment and regional integration within Central Asia, with significant milestones anticipated in the coming years.
