Uzbekistan Boosts Gas Exports Despite Production Drop
In the first two months of this year, Uzbekistan has seen a significant increase in gas exports, raising concerns about domestic production and shortages. According to reports from the Statistics Committee, Uzbekistan exported gas worth $42 million in January and February 2025, a 57.3% increase compared to the same period last year.
In February alone, gas exports reached $20.2 million, marking a 3.54 times increase from the previous year. However, gas imports during the same period amounted to $35.8 million, with a notable drop in February to $8 million. Since the beginning of the year, gas imports have decreased sixfold.
Gas production in Uzbekistan has also declined, reaching 3.5015 billion cubic meters in February, down by 4.2% since the start of the year. Importantly, Uzbekistan imported $1.7 billion worth of gas from Russia and Turkmenistan in 2024, while gas exports rose by 18% to $628 million.
It is interesting to note that officials had previously suggested that Uzbekistan might halt natural gas exports starting January 1, 2025. The prices at which gas is imported and exported remain undisclosed as they are considered a “commercial secret.” The increase in gas exports amid declining production and shortages raises questions about Uzbekistan’s energy strategy moving forward.
