According to a January 18 announcement from the Ministry of Commerce, the trade volume of goods between China and Central Asian countries has reached a new historic high, with the total import and export value surpassing the $100 billion mark for the first time in history, maintaining positive growth for five consecutive years. China has become the largest trading partner for Central Asian countries for the first time, and Central Asia's share in China's foreign trade has further increased.

The official from the Department of Eurasian Affairs, Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, stated that in 2025, economic and trade cooperation between China and Central Asian countries achieved significant progress. According to China Customs statistics, the total annual trade in goods reached $106.3 billion, a year-on-year increase of 12%, with the growth rate rising by 6 percentage points compared to the previous year.

Specifically, the trade mix between China and Central Asia has shifted toward higher-value goods. China's exports grew 11% year-on-year to $71.2 billion, led by mechanical, electrical, and high-tech products, with notable gains in the "new three" categories. Imports from Central Asia rose 14% to $35.1 billion, with increased diversity in chemicals, steel, and agricultural products.

New business models are boosting trade between China and Central Asia. Cross-border e-commerce has expanded rapidly, supported by improved warehousing, logistics, and payment systems. Additionally, the launch of the China-Central Asia Smooth Trade Cooperation Platform in Nanjing, with the "Silk Road E-commerce" initiative, has further streamlined trade exchanges.

Investment and trade have become increasingly intertwined. High-quality Belt and Road cooperation has advanced, accelerating the rollout of major projects in connectivity, equipment manufacturing, green mining, and modern agriculture. These initiatives are boosting exports to Central Asia and supporting industrial upgrading and economic revitalization in the region.