Pakistan–Central Asia Trade Corridor:
How Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan Partnerships Are Reshaping Regional Logistics
By Afaq Ahmed Khan
CEO, Mega Movers Pakistan
Pakistan Emerges as the Gateway to Central Asian Trade
Pakistan is rapidly positioning itself as a strategic trade and logistics hub connecting Central Asia with global markets. Strengthening economic partnerships with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, combined with major infrastructure and connectivity projects, is reshaping regional trade dynamics across South and Central Asia.
Recent diplomatic engagements, trade agreements, and transport corridor initiatives reflect Pakistan’s long-term vision to become the primary gateway for Central Asian exports through its deep-sea ports of Karachi and Gwadar.
Pakistan–Uzbekistan Trade Relations Show Record Growth
Trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan has expanded at an unprecedented pace. Between 2017 and 2025, bilateral trade volume increased more than twelvefold, reaching USD 445.9 million.
Uzbekistan’s exports to Pakistan surged to USD 325 million, while Pakistan’s exports to Uzbekistan reached USD 120.9 million, highlighting a balanced and sustainable trade relationship. Preferential Trade Agreements and Transit Trade Agreements have further strengthened bilateral commerce and reduced trade barriers.
Investment Cooperation Between Pakistan and Uzbekistan
Investment ties are playing a critical role in deepening Pakistan–Uzbekistan economic relations. As of January 2026, over 200 enterprises with Pakistani capital are operating in Uzbekistan, spanning sectors such as:
- Textiles and apparel
- Pharmaceuticals and healthcare
- Food processing
- Transport and logistics
- ICT and engineering services
This growing investment footprint demonstrates Pakistan’s increasing role in Central Asia’s industrial and logistics development.
Trans-Afghan Railway Project: Transforming Regional Connectivity
The Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar railway project is one of the most strategic connectivity initiatives in the region. The project aims to provide the shortest and most economical rail route between Central Asia and South Asia.
Once completed, the corridor will:
- Reduce transit time and logistics costs
- Enable direct access to Pakistani ports
- Boost regional transit trade
- Strengthen supply chain integration between Central and South Asia
This railway has the potential to become a backbone of regional trade infrastructure.
Pakistan–Kazakhstan Trade and Connectivity Expansion
Pakistan’s trade diplomacy with Kazakhstan is equally significant. Pakistan and Kazakhstan have set a target to increase bilateral trade to USD 1 billion within two years, supported by enhanced rail, road, and port connectivity.
The proposed Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan corridor is expected to unlock new trade routes and commercial opportunities across Eurasia, supported by recently signed transit trade and port cooperation agreements.
Gwadar and Karachi Ports: Central Asia’s Access to Global Markets
Pakistan’s ports of Gwadar and Karachi are emerging as critical maritime gateways for landlocked Central Asian states. With expanded rail and road networks, these ports can significantly improve export efficiency for Central Asian commodities while strengthening Pakistan’s role in international trade and logistics.
State-owned and private logistics operators in Pakistan are preparing to support large-scale cargo movement from Central Asia to global destinations.
What This Means for the Logistics and Transport Industry
For logistics companies, freight forwarders, and supply chain operators, regional connectivity initiatives open new opportunities in:
- Cross-border transportation
- Multimodal logistics solutions
- Port handling and warehousing
- Transit trade and customs facilitation
Pakistan’s logistics sector is entering a phase of regional relevance and global integration.
The Road Ahead for Regional Trade Integration
The convergence of Pakistan’s partnerships with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan marks a turning point in regional trade architecture. Infrastructure-led growth, backed by political commitment and private-sector participation, can transform Pakistan into a regional logistics powerhouse.
As trade corridors expand, Pakistan’s role in shaping the future of Central and South Asian commerce will continue to grow.
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