China's merchandise trade with Central Asia accelerated in the first half of 2026, with overall regional commerce expanding 6.5 percent compared to the same period last year, according to China's General Administration of Customs. The region's total trade value climbed to $52.94 billion from $49.70 billion in the first half of 2025, reflecting robust commercial ties across the strategically important corridor.
Trade flows varied by country, with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan—Central Asia's two largest economies—leading growth during the period. Tajikistan also posted gains, underscoring strengthening commercial relationships in the region. By contrast, trade volumes with Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan declined during the same timeframe, reflecting the uneven nature of bilateral commerce across Central Asian markets.
The expansion of China's Central Asian trade reflects ongoing efforts to deepen regional integration through infrastructure projects and commercial partnerships, contributing to broader economic linkages between China and its western neighbors.