Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent, is undergoing a remarkable transformation, powered by a surge in Chinese investment and technology.
On the eve of the 2025 China-Central Asia Summit, Uzbekistan is blending its rich historical traditions with modern advancements. At the heart of this evolution is a deepening partnership with the Chinese mainland, as entrepreneurs and government officials alike look eastward for opportunities.
High Town: A Symbol of Collaboration
Just five kilometers from the Presidential Palace, the High Town complex rises as a testament to Sino-Uzbek ambitions. Built and operated by Chinese companies, this 600,000-square-meter development will feature luxury residences, office spaces, a hotel with panoramic views, a kindergarten, and the city’s second-largest mall. The mall is already bustling with shoppers drawn to Chinese retailers like Xiaomi, Huawei, Li-Ning, and MINISO.
“This isn’t just property development,” said Fan Xiaojun, project manager of High Town. “Many local customers have thanked us for investing in their city and creating such a positive environment.”
Set for completion in 2028, High Town aims to serve 150,000 residents and serve as a model for future collaborations. Chinese firms are also working alongside Uzbek teams on projects like gas pipelines, solar power plants, and industrial developments.
Transforming Tashkent’s Streets
Chinese technology is leaving its mark across Tashkent. Electric vehicles from BYD, adorned with the slogan “Build Your Dreams,” are a common sight. Electric buses glide silently through the city, and dedicated bus lanes are under construction to ease traffic congestion, all thanks to Chinese engineering.
In 2023, the Chinese mainland became Uzbekistan’s top foreign investor, pouring over $7 billion into energy, digital technology, and green development. The visa-free agreement implemented on June 1 allows 30-day stays, fostering greater people-to-people exchanges. With more than 80 flights weekly between the two countries, opportunities for collaboration continue to grow.
Investing in the Future
Uzbekistan’s economy is on the rise, with its gross domestic product doubling in the past eight years. The nation aims to increase its GDP to $200 billion by 2030. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has emphasized the importance of attracting investment in critical metals like tungsten, molybdenum, and rare earth elements.
“The potential of our subsoil resources is valued at $3 trillion,” President Mirziyoyev stated. “Investors engaged in full-cycle operations, from geological exploration to finished goods production, will receive a rent tax refund for 10 years.”
Amir Abidov, deputy board chairman at the Uzbekistan Technological Metals Complex, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with Chinese companies. “We know that Chinese researchers and companies are rapidly developing new technologies and manufacturing facilities,” he said. “We have over 70 projects worth more than $1.6 billion, focusing on critical raw materials.”
Looking Ahead
The upcoming China-Central Asia Summit will see leaders from the region convene in Kazakhstan’s capital. With new opportunities on the horizon, China and Uzbekistan are poised to strengthen their collaboration across various sectors.
Earlier this year, the two nations announced plans to develop an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. As Tashkent’s electric streets and rising towers demonstrate, the future of Sino-Uzbek relations is already unfolding, promising prosperity and innovation for both countries.
