The construction of a large-scale cotton-textile complex in the TURAN Special Economic Zone in Kazakhstan’s Turkistan region was discussed by Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and the head of China's Xinjiang Lihua (Group) Co., Kazinform reports.
The full-cycle project, worth more than 200 billion tenge ($400 million), is expected to boost the region’s economic growth.
The initiative envisions the creation of an agro-industrial hub with a closed production cycle—from cotton cultivation on 50,000 hectares to the production of yarn, fabrics, and clothing. The plan includes the construction of ten enterprises, including:
- Four raw material processing plants near the fields,
- Two advanced drip irrigation system factories,
- Four textile factories, including a garment and finishing plant.
The project will create over 4,000 jobs, of which 3,000 will be permanent.
Currently, a PVC pipe plant for cluster needs has been launched, and construction of textile facilities and an irrigation network—including canals and a pumping station—is underway. Zhang Qihai, head of Xinjiang Lihua, praised Kazakhstan’s investment appeal and the region’s climate, announcing that the first batches of products will be released by October 2025.
Olzhas Bektenov called the project strategically important, emphasizing its role in economic diversification and export growth.
"The creation of a cotton-textile cluster will increase the added value of products, develop agriculture with a focus on processing, and enhance the country’s export potential. The government will provide the necessary support," he stated.
Xinjiang Lihua ranks among the top 55 agricultural companies in China, specializing in the full cycle of cotton processing—from breeding to textile production.
Meanwhile, discrepancies in customs statistics between Kazakhstan and China reached a record level in 2024. For example, in 2024, China officially reported exports to Kazakhstan worth $28.1 billion, while Kazakhstan’s statistics showed imports from China at only $15.2 billion—a significant difference.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 24, 2025