The trade relations between Kyrgyzstan and the USA are in the stage of searching for new approaches. Temir Sariyev, head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic, discussed in detail in an interview with VB.KG the obstacles that hinder the inflow of investments from America, as well as highlighted niches where domestic entrepreneurs have already achieved success.
One of the main factors holding back trade is the geographical location of the country. "The first and most noticeable problem is the complex, lengthy, and costly logistics. Even so, at certain times, cars were imported from the USA to Kyrgyzstan. Today, e-commerce somewhat simplifies the situation, but logistical difficulties still remain a significant constraint," Sariyev noted.
Another issue is the small scale of the market. For large American companies, Kyrgyzstan as a separate republic in Central Asia appears insufficiently attractive. Sariyev proposes a solution: regional integration, which would allow countries to unite and offer a larger market for investors.
"American companies are big players that need volumes. If we consider each country separately, it’s only about 7–8 million people. Whereas, in total, the market can be around 80 million people, which is already significantly more interesting for investors," he added.
Kyrgyzstan is also interested in having American investors see the country not just as a source of raw materials. Although mineral resources still attract the attention of the USA, Bishkek emphasizes the need for diversification. According to Sariyev, the country needs partners willing to invest in infrastructure construction, logistics centers, as well as in the financial sector. He particularly highlighted the financial sector, which has enormous potential related to access to inexpensive loans from the USA.
"There are significant financial resources in the USA that are often more accessible and cheaper than in other countries. However, to attract them, our banks and financial institutions need to work more actively and increase their readiness for cooperation," Temir Sariyev emphasized.
Nevertheless, the IT sector has proven to be the only industry where borders and high logistics costs have not become serious obstacles. Kyrgyzstan is already successfully integrated into the American economy in this sphere.
"About 90% of the software developed in our country is exported to the USA. The American market in this regard is very large and promising, although the competition there is extremely high. However, with systematic and targeted efforts, there are opportunities for growth," concluded the head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Kyrgyzstan.
