专访香港贸发局：透视中亚贸易激增逻辑，搜罗丝路风口新商机

Core Insights - The Central Asian countries are strategically located as a land hub connecting East Asia and Europe, playing a crucial role in the Belt and Road Initiative. Trade between China and these countries has rapidly increased, with China becoming the largest trading partner and main source of investment in the region [2][5]. Trade and Investment - The total trade volume between China and Central Asian countries has grown from 50.2 billion USD in 2013 to approximately 94.8 billion USD in 2024, marking an increase of nearly 90% [5]. - Hong Kong's trade with Central Asia has also seen significant growth, with total trade rising from 19.4 million USD in 2013 to 66.9 million USD in 2024, a 3.4-fold increase [5][7]. Infrastructure Development - The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is expected to be completed by 2031, which will shorten the distance from China to Europe by 900 kilometers and save 7 to 10 days in shipping time [5]. - In 2024, nearly 12,000 Central Asia trains are expected to operate, sending 880,000 TEUs of goods, achieving double-digit growth year-on-year [5]. E-commerce and Digital Economy - The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is positioned to enhance cross-border e-commerce and smart logistics with Central Asia, leveraging Hong Kong's air transport network [9][12]. - Kazakhstan's retail e-commerce transaction volume is projected to reach 6 billion USD in 2024, a 29% increase year-on-year, accounting for 14.1% of the national retail trade total [9][11]. Financial Technology and Digital Infrastructure - Chinese companies, particularly from the Greater Bay Area, are expected to play a key role in enhancing digital infrastructure in Central Asia, including payment systems and financial inclusivity [14][15]. - Central Asian countries are focusing on digital economy as a national strategy, but they require improvements in infrastructure, digital talent, and investment to advance [15][16]. Market Opportunities and Challenges - Approximately 90% of surveyed mainland enterprises plan to expand into international markets, with 95.2% focusing on Belt and Road markets, including Central Asia [19][20]. - Challenges for enterprises expanding into Central Asia include trade policies, import tariffs, brand recognition, and consumer behavior [20][21]. Country-Specific Insights - Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are highlighted as having significant cooperation potential due to their resource wealth and relatively open market policies [21][23]. - Kazakhstan has been a pioneer in market reforms since the 2000s, while Uzbekistan has initiated large-scale reforms since late 2016, creating favorable business environments [21][23].