Middle Corridor Emerges as a New Growth Engine for Central Asia
Economy
The Middle Corridor, energy market integration and greater private capital participation could become key drivers of a new phase of economic growth in Central Asia. Participants in an international discussion on regional cooperation, investment and open trade reached this conclusion.
Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Jamshid Kuchkarov stressed that the region’s future development is directly linked to stronger connectivity, expanded trade and increased investment. Uzbekistan continues to modernise transport infrastructure, develop public-private partnerships and reform state-owned enterprises.
World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Antonella Bassani described the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route as one of the most important projects for improving the region’s access to global markets.
The creation of a common energy market is also emerging as a major priority. Currently, only around 3% of electricity generated in Central Asia is traded across borders. A programme worth approximately $1 billion is being implemented to increase regional electricity trade and integrate renewable energy sources.
International financial institutions are also showing growing interest in regional infrastructure. The European Investment Bank has announced more than €360 million in project financing, which could help mobilise around €1 billion in investment.
IFC representatives note increasing private-sector interest in the Middle Corridor. However, administrative barriers, regulatory differences and insufficient project readiness continue to limit private investment.
Participants stressed that turning Central Asia’s geography into a competitive advantage will require deeper regional cooperation, transparent business rules, fewer trade barriers and the development of modern transport, energy and digital infrastructure.
World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Antonella Bassani described the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route as one of the most important projects for improving the region’s access to global markets.
The creation of a common energy market is also emerging as a major priority. Currently, only around 3% of electricity generated in Central Asia is traded across borders. A programme worth approximately $1 billion is being implemented to increase regional electricity trade and integrate renewable energy sources.
International financial institutions are also showing growing interest in regional infrastructure. The European Investment Bank has announced more than €360 million in project financing, which could help mobilise around €1 billion in investment.
IFC representatives note increasing private-sector interest in the Middle Corridor. However, administrative barriers, regulatory differences and insufficient project readiness continue to limit private investment.
Participants stressed that turning Central Asia’s geography into a competitive advantage will require deeper regional cooperation, transparent business rules, fewer trade barriers and the development of modern transport, energy and digital infrastructure.
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