China’s dominance in Uzbekistan’s investment landscape continues to grow in 2024. Explore the full story to learn more about their influence.

China Emerges as Top Foreign Investor in Uzbekistan in 2024

According to reports from the press service of the Uzbek president, China has taken the lead among foreign investors in Uzbekistan in 2024. This significant development underscores the growing economic ties between the two countries and highlights China’s increasing presence in the Central Asian region.

While China’s investment in Uzbekistan brings about opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure development, it also raises concerns about dependency and sovereignty. As seen in other countries, heavy reliance on Chinese investment may lead to a situation where Uzbekistan’s economic policies and decision-making are influenced by Chinese interests, potentially compromising its independence.

One example of the challenges posed by Chinese investment can be seen in the case of Sri Lanka, where the country struggled to repay loans for Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, leading to the handover of a strategic port to China. This serves as a cautionary tale for Uzbekistan as it navigates its relationship with China and seeks to balance economic development with national interests.

As Uzbekistan continues to attract foreign investment, particularly from China, it is essential for policymakers to carefully assess the long-term implications of such partnerships. By promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable development practices, Uzbekistan can maximize the benefits of foreign investment while safeguarding its sovereignty and national interests. The case of China’s dominance in Uzbekistan’s investment landscape serves as a timely reminder of the complex dynamics at play in the global economic arena.

Source: The Star Online.
Author: Ubaydullaeva Nilufar, Li Ao.
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2025/02/21/china-leads-among-foreign-investors-in-uzbekistan.
2025-02-20T20:36:00Z.