CE's visit in Uzbekistan increases confidence Central Asian investment

With the recent rise of Chinese industries in Uzbekistan, Timothy Li takes a look at their contribution to the Central Asian nation's growing light industry sector.

Originating from the mainland, this factory dedicated to manufacturing doors and windows began operations in Uzbekistan at the start of this year.Among its staff are five mainlanders and around 10 local employees.

Mr. Yue, the manager of the factory, says Uzbekistan has been developing rapidly in recent times and senses a positive future for its infrastructure and construction industries.He adds there has been a growing demand for mansions both among the common people and the wealthy.

Located in an industrial park some 45 minutes away from the capital of Tashkent, the park stands at around 200,000 square feet in size housing at least 60 factories specialising in steel and construction material production.

Chen Yitian, the manager of the industrial park, believes the facility's relatively close distance with Tashkent allows for ease of sales to the wider Uzbek market while remaining economically efficient.

As of now, more than 5,500 Chinese industries have set up in Uzbekistan, having grown by over 2,000 from two years ago.

But it's not just mainland businesses that have made use of the new economic opportunities in the Central Asian country.

An investment company from Hong Kong sets up a base in the Uzbek capital in a bid to assist mainland industries better connect with the local government.

The company president notes Hong Kong maintains the advantage of being an international investment hub that attracts mainland businesses to utilise and expand their operations abroad.

He also believes Chief Executive John Lee's visit in Uzbekistan played a pivotal role in increasing confidence in investment in the region.