Weekly Updates from Central Asia: New Partnerships, Investments, and Advancements in Various Sectors

Central Asia is experiencing significant growth and development across various sectors, with new partnerships, investments, and advancements shaping the region’s future. Here are the key highlights from this week:

Kazakhstan

1. Improvement in State Educational Savings System: Kazakhstan has enhanced its state educational savings system to make higher education more accessible. The updated system offers increased government bonuses and more flexible conditions for account holders, aiming to encourage more families to invest in education.

2. International Chess Championship in Almaty: Almaty is hosting a major international chess championship, bringing together top players from different countries. The event aims to promote chess as a universal language that unites people worldwide, showcasing strategic mastery and fostering global connections through the game.

3. Discovery of Rare Earth Metal Deposits: Kazakhstani geologists have identified significant deposits of rare earth metals, crucial for high-tech industries. This discovery could boost the country’s role in the global supply chain for electronics, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, presenting economic opportunities and future investments.

4. Philip Morris’ Investment in Almaty Region: Philip Morris has inaugurated a new production facility in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region with a $150 million investment, creating 200 jobs. The plant will focus on producing innovative tobacco products, supporting economic development and job creation in the region.

Kyrgyzstan

1. Cooperation with EU on Raw Materials: Kyrgyzstan has proposed deeper cooperation with the EU on critical raw materials, highlighting the country’s reserves of rare metals. The country also invited European partners to invest in hydropower and renewable energy projects.

2. Scholarship Opportunities in Slovakia: Kyrgyzstan citizens can now apply for scholarship programs to study in Slovakia for the 2025/26 academic year. The Ministry of Education and Science of Kyrgyzstan has opened applications, with a deadline of May 25, 2025.

3. Joint Tourist Route with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan are planning to create the "Golden Tourist Ring of the Fergana Valley," linking cultural, historical, and natural landmarks across the three countries. The initiative aims to promote tourism and showcase the region’s diverse attractions.

Uzbekistan

1. Air Products’ Projects in Uzbekistan: Air Products and Chemicals are considering new projects in Uzbekistan, including carbon capture, aviation fuel production, and coal gasification. The company has already invested significantly in projects since 2019, contributing to the country’s industrial development.

2. EU’s €12 Billion Investment Package: The European Commission announced a €12 billion investment package for Central Asia, focusing on transport corridors, critical raw materials, green energy, and satellite internet. This investment aims to strengthen ties and promote sustainable growth in the region.

3. Oman Air’s Flights to Tashkent: Oman Air has received approval to operate regular flights between Muscat and Tashkent, marking its first service to Central Asia. The new route is expected to start in July 2024, enhancing connectivity between the two countries.

4. Investment in Korzinka Supermarket Chain: Investment funds from the UAE and Oman are set to inject $110 million into Korzinka, Uzbekistan’s supermarket chain. The funds will support the expansion of stores and the development of online platforms, aiming to accelerate the growth of the retail model.

Tajikistan

1. Investment Presentation in UAE: Tajikistan will host an investment presentation in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on April 9, inviting investors from the UAE to explore key projects and priority investment areas in sectors such as agriculture, IT, healthcare, and transport. The event aims to strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

Central Asia’s dynamic growth and increasing international collaborations across various sectors are driving the region towards a prosperous and interconnected future. Stay tuned for more updates on the region’s advancements and partnerships.