Kazakhstan and China to Establish Nearly $400 Mln Cotton-Textile Cluster

Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister, Olzhas Bektenov, recently met with Zhang Qihai, Chairman of China’s Xinjiang Lihua, to discuss the development of a cotton-textile cluster in the TURAN Special Economic Zone, Turkestan region.

The project, valued at over KZT 200 bn (approximately $396.7 mln), aims to create a full-cycle cotton agro-industrial complex, covering everything from cotton cultivation to the production of finished textile goods such as yarn, fabric, and clothing.

Project Overview

The initiative includes the allocation of over 50,000 hectares for cotton cultivation and the construction of ten factories, including:

• Four cotton processing plants near cultivation areas
• Two factories for producing drip irrigation systems using advanced water-saving technologies
• Four textile factories, including sewing and dyeing-finishing facilities

The project is expected to create over 4,000 jobs, with 3,000 of them being permanent positions.

Current Progress

To support the cluster’s operations, a PVC pipe production plant has already been commissioned, and construction of textile factories has begun. The investor is also working on irrigation infrastructure, including a network of canals and a pumping station.

Zhang Qihai highlighted Kazakhstan’s favorable investment conditions and the region’s suitability for cotton production. He also announced plans to launch the first production of finished goods in October this year.

Government Support

Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the strategic importance of the project and the benefits of a cluster-based economic approach. He noted that Turkestan is Kazakhstan’s only cotton-growing region and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the initiative.

About Xinjiang Lihua

Xinjiang Lihua is one of China’s largest cotton-processing enterprises, ranking 55th among the country’s top 500 agricultural companies. The company specializes in the full-cycle processing of cotton, from seed selection to the production of textile goods.

This version is professional, SEO-friendly, and presents the information clearly. Let me know if you need any adjustments.