Pakistan’s trade with Central Asian countries has seen a significant downturn in the fiscal year 2025, with exports to the region dropping by 31.63% to $197.06 million from $288.23 million in FY24. Meanwhile, imports from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have surged by 411% to $245.09 million, up from $47.94 million the previous year. This growing trade imbalance highlights challenges in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen economic ties with Central Asia, despite diplomatic initiatives and transit trade agreements.
Details of Trade with Central Asia
Kazakhstan remains Pakistan’s top export market in the region, but exports fell sharply by 47.12% to $97.96 million, while imports from Kazakhstan skyrocketed to $129.63 million from just $0.677 million in FY24. Uzbekistan also saw a decline in exports by 18.17% to $63.65 million, with imports nearly tripling to $79.23 million. Kyrgyzstan experienced a 58.26% drop in exports to $3.99 million, while imports rose slightly to $0.571 million. In contrast, exports to Tajikistan doubled to $29.79 million, though imports also climbed by 211% to $19.09 million. Turkmenistan was an exception, with exports increasing by 42.73% to $1.67 million, but imports still grew by 35.48% to $16.57 million.
The trade dynamics reflect Pakistan’s struggle to boost exports despite efforts to enhance regional connectivity, including transit agreements with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Much of the trade is routed through Afghanistan, with annual trade volumes ranging between $400 million and $500 million, a small fraction of Pakistan’s total trade. Recent discussions on social media platforms highlight concerns about logistical bottlenecks and the need for improved infrastructure to facilitate trade. For instance, posts on X suggest that streamlining customs processes and investing in transport corridors could help address the imbalance.
Pakistan’s trade deficit with Central Asia underscores the need for strategic measures to enhance export competitiveness. Strengthening digital infrastructure, such as the advanced datacentres recently established in Lahore and Karachi, could support trade by improving logistics and communication. Additionally, focusing on high-demand sectors like textiles and agricultural products may help Pakistan regain its footing in the region.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 27th, 2025
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