China is considering a plan to import Uzbek honey

Trade relations between China and Uzbekistan may rise to a new level. According to representatives of the “Alashankou” free trade zone in China, currently, exports between the two countries mainly consist of dried fruits and chicken feet, but this potential is only a part of the real opportunities.

On August 8, the Uzbekistan delegation visited the “Alashankou” free trade zone located near the China–Kazakhstan border and became acquainted with the available opportunities. The deputy mayor of Alashankou city, Shu Sheng Qiang, noted that this economic zone was established in 2011 within the framework of the “Belt and Road” initiative, and through it, various goods are delivered from China to Europe and to the countries of Central Asia, including Uzbekistan.

Here, entrepreneurs are provided with a wide range of services — from customs clearance, certification, and logistics to storage, packaging, and loading of goods. At present, large warehouses operate in the economic zone. In 2024, 7,684 shipments were made by rail alone, which is almost 16 percent more than in 2023. In addition, 40 million tons of products imported from abroad were delivered to territories within China.

Speaking about cooperation with Uzbekistan, Shu Sheng Qiang emphasized:
— “Uzbekistan mainly exports dried fruits and chicken feet. These figures absolutely do not reflect the potential of the two countries. We are ready to expand partnerships with Uzbek entrepreneurs. For example, we currently import honey from Russia. As far as I know, Uzbek honey is also very sweet and in high demand on the market. If Uzbek entrepreneurs export honey packaged in accordance with modern standards, we are ready to help them find buyers in the Chinese market,” he said.

During the visit, the Uzbekistan delegation inspected warehouses, unloading areas, and packaging facilities. According to officials, if cooperation is established in high-value and export-oriented products such as honey, the trade turnover between the two countries could significantly increase.

Kamola Shuhratova

Editor of «ZAMIN.UZ»