Central Asia's Oil and Gas Pipeline Network: Current and Future Flows

Abstract

Substantial quantities of oil and gas lie beneath the surface of Central Asia and neighboring countries. Yet until viable export routes are established, much of the hydrocarbon base will remain undeveloped. Several new pipeline projects today are under consideration to facilitate trade, involving largely the transport of oil and gas from Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and/or Azerbaijan. This paper examines current and expected future flows of oil and gas in the region, and the politics and economics influencing their directions and volumes. 4 tables, 5 figures, 19 references.