Full-scale construction of the international China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway is now underway, according to Kyrgyz Deputy Prime Minister Bakyt Torobaev. Speaking on July 3, 2025, he announced that building works began on June 30, marking a major milestone in the long-anticipated transport project.
Although official construction was launched on 27 December 2024 with addresses from the presidents of Kyrgyzstan, China and Uzbekistan, on-the-ground implementation has now entered an active phase.
The railway line will stretch over 304 kilometres across Kyrgyzstan. Valued at $4.7 bn, the project involves major infrastructure components, including 29 tunnels—three of which will be among the longest in the region at 12, 13 and 14 kilometres each—as well as 41 viaduct bridges. Completion is expected by 2030.
A key element of the construction will be the use of Kyrgyz cement, boosting local industry involvement in one of the country’s largest transport infrastructure ventures. Torobaev emphasised that all obligations under the investment agreements are clearly outlined for the Kyrgyz side.
«We are giving continuous directives to state bodies,» he said. «If land clearance is required, it must be addressed. If power lines need to be installed, they must be connected. Forest areas must also be properly prepared. Construction must face no obstacles.»
The railway, once operational, is expected to significantly enhance trade and logistics connectivity across Central and East Asia, providing a new transit corridor linking China with the wider region through Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
