Western Kazakhstan: A new industrial hub for China in Central Asia

When you look for true engines of economic growth on the world map, your eyes increasingly land not on capital cities or megacities, but on regions. These are the places where, quietly but steadily, factories rise, industrial projects take shape, and a new economy is born. One of the clearest examples is Western Kazakhstan, a region steadily building strong ties with one of the world's largest economic powers — the People's Republic of China.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

In 2024, trade turnover between Western Kazakhstan and China reached $88.4 million — a 25 percent increase compared to the previous year. Exports grew by 50 percent, totaling $1.8 million. Imports amounted to $86.6 million, up by around 25 percent.

But it's not just about how much — it's about what. The region's main export to China was safflower seeds (an oilseed crop), which accounted for $1.3 million. China has shown consistent interest in safflower, used in oil production, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. It has effectively become the flagship agricultural export of the region.

Other goods exported to China include:

· Barley — $40.9 thousand

· Cosmetics — also $40.9 thousand

Yes, the current export basket may seem modest. But the region has clearly found products that resonate with Chinese demand. That opens the door to scaling up — from raw materials to value-added goods, from small shipments to long-term contracts.

Imports: More Than Consumption — A Step Toward Modernization

Western Kazakhstan imported $86.6 million worth of goods from China. But this isn't just about consumer products — much of it supports local development:

· Vegetables — $18.36 million

· Hygiene products — $8.78 million

· Sports equipment — $8 million

· Fruits — $7.23 million

· Nuts — $4.45 million

· Plastic pipes and hoses — $278.9 thousand

This import structure shows that the region is becoming part of a global supply chain tailored to the needs of both its population and its businesses. And yet, there's a growing trend toward localizing production to eventually replace some of these imported goods.

Chinese Investment: From Planning to Implementation

If trade builds horizontal connections, investment lays down roots. In 2024, Western Kazakhstan saw the launch of two major projects involving Chinese capital.

The first is the expansion of a gas turbine power plant to a capacity of 414 MW. Backed by Batys Power, the project is worth 447 billion tenge and is expected to provide both energy and long-term development stability.

The second is the construction of a methanol-producing gas chemical complex, initiated by ZhaikPetroleumLTD. Total investment stands at 78.8 billion tenge, much of which has already been disbursed. Another 53 billion tenge is expected in 2025. This project marks a shift toward local, value-added processing and will create new jobs in the region.

New Directions: From Agricultural Machinery to Environmental Projects

Cooperation between Western Kazakhstan and China is not limited to existing projects. A wide array of future initiatives is under discussion:

· INO Hong Kong International Industrial Company is exploring the possibility of launching agricultural machinery production.

· Shihong Trading Company from Henan is considering investments in housing and infrastructure development.

· Zhejiang Haihe Environmental Technology is reviewing opportunities in environmental modernization, including wastewater treatment and waste recycling.

There are also talks about local production of home appliances, compound feed manufacturing, processing of cattle and sheep hides, and deep processing of agricultural products. These projects will not only create jobs but also diversify and stabilize the local economy.

Why Does This Matter?

Because China's presence isn't just about numbers on a report. It's about access — to technology, equipment, education programs, and global markets. It's an opportunity for Western Kazakhstan to evolve from a transit zone into a full-fledged industrial player.

Chinese projects bring in foreign currency, equipment, expertise, and international standards. Together, these factors are making Western Kazakhstan a growing point of interest for investment and human capital in Central Asia.

China Isn't Just a Partner — It's a Co-Architect of the Region's Future

And most importantly, Chinese companies don't build for two years — they build for decades. What matters to them is stability, logistics, resources, and growth potential. Today, Western Kazakhstan offers all of that.

This Is Just the Beginning

If current projects succeed and trends continue, Western Kazakhstan could become a model for how a region can rise to the global stage through clear strategy, smart partnerships, and bold investment decisions.

DKNews International News Agency