Uzbekistan and Russia have accelerated their collaboration in the aluminium industry, leveraging the 5th International Industrial Exhibition “Innoprom. Central Asia” in Tashkent as a launchpad for agreements on standards harmonisation, joint projects and cutting-edge materials such as aluminium-zirconium alloys.
Image for representational purposes only (Source: https://oren.ru/)
The potent partnership builds on over 650 existing joint ventures worth USD 67 billion, aligns with Uzbekistan’s robust 6.5 per cent economic growth in 2024, and taps into Russia’s industrial expertise across energy, transport and construction, promising to modernise infrastructure and boost regional supply chains.
Expanding horizons
At Innoprom Central Asia, Denis Manturov, First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, makes the need to broaden bilateral industrial ties to meet global challenges and drive mutual growth evident. Uzbekistan’s economy, having expanded by 6.5 per cent in 2024, which is the strongest pace in the Eurasian region, paves the path towards sustained GDP growth of 6 per cent in 2025 and 6.1 per cent in 2026, fuelled largely by surging industrial output. With over 650 joint projects valued at USD 67 billion already underway, both governments view the aluminium sector as a linchpin for deeper cooperation.
Innovations in technology
Irina Kazovskaya, Chair of the Aluminum Association, outlined how adopting Russian interstate standards in Uzbekistan will catalyse eco-friendly materials and processes, including advanced 8000-series aluminium-zirconium alloys that double power-line transmission capacity. These next-generation alloys have been proven across the Eurasian Economic Union for carving gains in conductivity and resilience for energy infrastructure.
“We are open to partnering with Uzbek companies for the joint implementation of infrastructure projects in sectors such as energy, transport, construction, and industry, which will contribute to the economic development of both countries,” said Kazovskaya.
Moreover, Russia’s recent investments in Rusal’s alumina supply chain, such as the planned acquisition of up to a 50 per cent stake in India’s Pioneer Aluminium Industries, suggest Moscow’s farsighted planning to secure raw materials for aluminium production and to mitigate supply vulnerabilities.
Sector-specific applications
New Russian-Uzbek aluminium solutions span multiple industries. In energy, high-conductivity cable products will facilitate the modernisation of ageing grids and the rollout of renewable energy projects, from hydro to thermal plants.
Transport infrastructure is going to benefit, too, with aluminium-reinforced bridges offering rapid assembly, low operating costs and corrosion resistance across diverse climates. The automotive sector is going to see cast and forged wheels, tram interiors, and components for electric buses manufactured by Russian enterprises available to Uzbek markets.
At the same time, next-generation aluminium tank containers and refrigerated units promise safer chemical transport and enhanced thermal performance for agro-industrial supply chains.
“Aluminium is an irreplaceable material in construction. More than 25 per cent of aluminium consumption comes from this sector. In recent years, Russian enterprises and research institutions have developed many innovative aluminium alloys, significantly expanding the use of aluminium in energy, transport, mechanical engineering, and construction. We are ready to share successful practices and expand cooperation in all areas. I am confident this will bring additional benefits to the economies of our countries and contribute to the development of the aluminium industry,” emphasised Irina Kazovskaya.
Infrastructure and regulatory alignment
In 2024, Uzbekistan formally adopted Russian interstate standards for aluminium products, streamlining cross-border projects in construction, mechanical engineering and transport manufacturing.
This regulatory harmonisation will prop up joint ventures in “Infrastructure for Life” initiatives, from bus shelters and bike parking to noise barriers and lighting poles, adapting proven Russian urban-improvement practices for Uzbek cities. The harmonised standards also dovetail with Russia’s comprehensive 2021–2027 construction reforms prioritising safety, energy efficiency and seismic resistance—areas where aluminium materials offer clear advantages.
Regional impact: Present and future prospects
The burgeoning partnership extends beyond aluminium. At the same exhibition, Russia’s Transport of the Future announced plans to localise UAV production in Uzbekistan by 2025, reflecting the broader technological synergies between the two nations.
Meanwhile, a fresh USD 100 million investment by Arnest Packaging Solutions in Navoi will launch Uzbekistan’s first large-scale aluminium can plant, with a capacity of up to 2.2 billion cans annually, reducing import dependency and opening export routes across Central Asia and the Caucasus. These developments signal a strategic shift as Uzbekistan leverages its geographic position and resource base to emerge as a regional aluminium hub.
Towards sustainability
Primary aluminium production remains energy-intensive, accounting for significant greenhouse gas emissions during smelting. The Russia-Uzbek cooperation emphasises innovative, eco-friendly alloys and energy-efficient processes to mitigate environmental impacts, aligning with global sustainability imperatives. Financially, diversifying supply chains and localising production enhance Uzbekistan’s economic resilience, while Russia cements its role as a technological partner in Central Asia.
The Russia-Uzbek aluminium axis now serves as a template for broader technology transfer: joint standards bodies are exploring composite materials for rail-car bodies and UAV airframes, while plans are underway for an “Aluminium Centre of Excellence” in Tashkent to coordinate R&D and workforce training through 2030. As bilateral trade grows, this partnership may well reposition Central Asia as a pivotal node in Eurasian industrial supply chains, cementing Uzbekistan’s rise and Russia’s expansion eastwards in the aluminium era.
Responses
