China and Kyrgyzstan are developing cooperation at various levels, including the business sector. Soon, a center will be opened in Bishkek that will focus on training mid-level specialists, further confirming the strengthening of ties between the two countries.
As reported by the Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Kyrgyzstan, Avazbek Kerimbaev, in an interview with vb.kg, the agreement to establish the center was signed with one of China's leading universities, Tsinghua. This event took place at the KURGYZ EXPO-25 exhibition, attended by many representatives of Chinese businesses, both those already operating in Kyrgyzstan and those seeking new investment opportunities.
What does this center represent?
- We are observing an increase in the number of Chinese entrepreneurs wishing to work in Kyrgyzstan. Tsinghua University is ready to invest in the creation of a training center for preparing qualified personnel who will be able to work in both Chinese and local companies. Given the demand for workers with good knowledge, it was decided to start training specialists on our territory. The training will focus on the most relevant professions, and the Ministry of Education is ready to provide premises for the center.
Currently, we are determining which specialties should be prioritized first. An important project is the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which will also require qualified personnel for work and maintenance. The opening of this center at such a time is particularly significant.
Modern technologies are rapidly developing not only in medicine and science but also in all sectors of the economy. The methods used a few years ago in construction and other fields have become outdated. Therefore, the need for specialists with up-to-date knowledge and experience is greater today than ever. As part of the agreement, the university will provide the latest equipment, including lathes, for training students.
We also plan to include Chinese language courses in the training program. Since we are preparing specialists for large Chinese investors, basic knowledge of the language will be necessary. The training will be affordable, and graduates will receive certificates and recommendations for employment.
How does your chamber contribute to the development of business ties between countries?
- Our chamber has long supported both large and small businesses in establishing contacts with China. According to our data, interest in China remains strong. We help businesses take advantage of our trade representations operating in 16 cities in China, which is a record for our institution abroad. These representations actively work in all areas: investments, trade, and business.
Our branch employees, having experience working in China, assist entrepreneurs in defining cooperation goals, which allows for effective planning of risks and opportunities. We also support Chinese entrepreneurs interested in Kyrgyzstan by informing them about business opportunities and the local legislative framework.
We actively promote Kyrgyz goods in the Chinese market, even despite strict quality requirements. Currently, we are experiencing a trade imbalance, as we import more than we export, although our agricultural products are of high quality. We are working to improve this aspect.
It is necessary to learn how to successfully export goods to China, which is one of the largest markets in the world. More than twenty Kyrgyz companies are already exporting products to China, including dairy and beekeeping enterprises.
What are the priority projects for Chinese investors in Kyrgyzstan?
- Our country is actively attracting investments in manufacturing, which is especially relevant after the loss of many production capacities in the post-Soviet period. We strive to restore these opportunities.
Tourism also needs to be developed, where Kyrgyzstan can showcase its unique nature and hospitality. The number of Chinese tourists visiting our country is increasing every year.
Cooperation is also developing in other areas. Despite its small size, Kyrgyzstan has the potential to export to other countries. We are part of the EAEU, which opens access to a 500-million market. Additionally, we have agreements on duty-free trade with the EU and other countries, making our products competitive.
Is there interest from Chinese investors in the construction sector?
- Yes, Chinese investors are actively developing the construction sector in Kyrgyzstan. We are witnessing a construction boom in all regions of the country, including Bishkek, where roads, residential complexes, and social facilities are being actively built.
China is a strategic partner of Kyrgyzstan, and the level of political relations between our countries remains high. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry, uniting more than two thousand companies, will continue to develop business ties with China.
