Trends and Patterns in Foreign Trade of Central Asian Countries

Introduction Central Asia is a region which possesses rich natural resources, an educated labour force, cultural diversity and strategic location, especially proximity to China. Conversely, the region is landlocked and remote from most global economic centres, it has a small population and market size, underdeveloped infrastructure, and in some areas suffers from political instability and insecurity; all of which create risks for human development. The relationship between the multiple forces driving development and risks is dynamic. Understanding these dynamics requires consistent monitoring and careful evidence-based analysis of key development factors in the region.