In January-February, Uzbekistan imported gas worth $166.7 million, a 95.6-fold increase compared to the same period last year. Gas imports in January and February were $35.6 million and $131.1 million, respectively. The country also exported gas worth $26.7 million during this time, with China importing $57.38 million, twice the amount reported by Uzbekistan.
In early 2023, Uzbekistan faced gas and electricity shortages, leading to restrictions and gas station closures. Discrepancies in gas export data between Uzbekistan and China have been noted, attributed to China accounting for Turkmen gas transit. Plans to modernize the gas pipeline system for increased imports from Russia are underway, with imports set to rise from 9 to 32 million cubic meters per day.
Despite Turkmenistan's proximity and gas reserves, Uzbekistan opts for Russian gas imports. The country imported more gas than it exported in 2023, with a difference exceeding $165 million. Factors contributing to this imbalance, including domestic gas reserves, have been analyzed by "Gazeta.uz."
