Key Takeaways
- Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed to use the China corridor for transit trade.
- The agreement aims to diversify routes and reduce dependence on Afghan and Iranian corridors.
- Officials expect a Protocol signing during an upcoming visit by Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister.
Pakistan and Uzbekistan have reached an agreement in principle to utilize the China corridor for bilateral transit trade, providing an alternative route following disruptions along traditional corridors. This move is part of efforts to ensure uninterrupted movement of goods despite regional security challenges.
The understanding was formalized during recent discussions between the two countries, with officials emphasizing that the revised transit framework will diversify routes and reduce dependence on the Afghan and Iranian corridors, which have faced disruptions due to regional instability.
According to official statements, the Protocol for Incorporation of Additions and Amendments into the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Transit Trade Agreement is expected to be signed during the visit of Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister to Pakistan from July 20-21, 2026. This agreement will allow Pakistan to use the China corridor as an additional transit route for trade with Uzbekistan and other Central Asian republics.
Uzbekistan currently stands as Pakistan's second-largest trading partner in Central Asia, with bilateral trade reaching $445.9 million in 2025. Pakistan exported goods worth $120.9 million while importing $325 million from Uzbekistan during the same period.
The existing Pakistan-Uzbekistan Transit Trade Agreement, which has been in force since March 2022, covers various aspects including customs infrastructure, transport permits, warehousing facilities, multiple entry visas for truck drivers, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The agreement allows the movement of goods through designated routes, ports, and border crossings agreed upon by both countries.
Officials highlighted that the revised transit framework is aimed at ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods despite evolving regional security challenges. They noted that Uzbekistan’s continued access to Pakistani seaports will be maintained under this new arrangement, further enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
The agreement underscores Pakistan's commitment to diversifying its trade routes and strengthening economic ties with Central Asian countries through alternative corridors. This move is expected to bolster regional cooperation and enhance trade flows in the broader South Asia-Central Asia corridor.
