Uzbekistan Plans Long-Term Aviation Fuel Imports from China to Meet Growing Demand

en.Wedoany.com Reported - Uzbekistan is considering long-term imports of aviation fuel from China to diversify its import sources and meet the country's growing demand for aviation fuel. Abdugani Sanginov, Chairman of Uzbekistan's national oil and gas company Uzbekneftegaz, met with a Chinese delegation led by Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan Yu Jun, and the two sides discussed the above topics. The talks covered cooperation in the oil and gas sector, the progress of existing investment projects, and potential new areas of collaboration.

During the meeting, the two sides focused on the possibility of long-term supply of Jet A-1 aviation fuel from China. Uzbekneftegaz stated that this move would help the country expand its aviation fuel import channels and establish a more stable supply system. The two sides also agreed to strengthen the support provided by the Chinese Embassy in Uzbekistan in assisting Uzbekneftegaz in establishing cooperation with major energy enterprises such as China National Aviation Fuel Group (CNAF) and Sinopec.

Currently, Uzbekneftegaz has cooperation projects with Chinese enterprises in multiple areas of Uzbekistan's oil and gas industry, covering geological exploration, drilling operations, oilfield services, and the introduction of advanced technologies. Chinese companies involved in the cooperation include CNPC, CNPC Chuanqing Drilling Engineering Company Limited (CCDC), CNPC Bureau of Geophysical Prospecting (BGP), Jereh Group, and Honghua Group. During the meeting, the two sides also exchanged views on further expanding strategic cooperation and advancing joint investment projects in the oil and gas sector.

The specific volume, pricing, and timeline for China's long-term supply of aviation fuel have not yet been disclosed. The discussion comes against the backdrop of an expected significant rise in Uzbekistan's domestic aviation fuel demand in the second half of 2026. According to data from the press service of the President of Uzbekistan, the country's estimated aviation fuel demand between July and December this year is approximately 375,000 tonnes, an increase of 27% from the previous period.

The growth in demand is attributed to changes in regional and international flight routes driven by the geopolitical situation, resulting in an increased number of flights transiting through Central Asia and Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan plans to meet most of its aviation fuel demand through domestic production, but due to export restrictions imposed by some partner countries on petroleum products, the country is actively seeking additional supply channels.

Currently, Uzbekistan imports aviation fuel from markets such as Georgia and Iraq to supplement domestic output. Uzbekneftegaz plans to produce 310,000 tonnes of aviation fuel by the end of 2026, and the company's management has also instructed relevant officials to formulate plans for increasing aviation fuel and diesel production, combining domestic output growth with potential imports to secure the country's growing aviation fuel needs.

The proposed long-term cooperation with China would provide Uzbekistan with an additional supplementary source of Jet A-1 aviation fuel beyond domestic supply and existing imports. Following the meeting, the two sides are expected to continue advancing engagement with CNAF and Sinopec and assess the feasibility of long-term aviation fuel imports from China.