Uzbekistan is moving to establish a high-value electronics manufacturing base through closer cooperation with China's printed circuit board (PCB) industry, as part of its broader strategy to develop high-tech manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on resource-based exports.

On October 17 (local time), UzDaily reported that Mirziyod Yunusov, Chairman of the "O'zeltexsanoat" Association, recently held a video conference with Yuffie Gao, Director of the China Printed Circuit Association (CPCA), to discuss potential collaboration in areas including technology transfer, standardization, training, and the joint development of PCB production infrastructure.

The CPCA, one of China's leading electronics industry associations, represents PCB and electronic assembly manufacturers, research institutions, and supply chain companies. It plays a key role in developing technical standards, organizing international exhibitions, and supporting innovation within the electronics sector.

During the meeting, the Uzbek side proposed building modern infrastructure for PCB production, creating R&D centers, and establishing an export-oriented manufacturing system capable of serving developed markets. Uzbekistan also expressed interest in forming long-term cooperation with CPCA member companies to attract advanced technology and investment.

Industry observers note that the initiative reflects Uzbekistan's growing ambition to participate more actively in the global electronics supply chain. With the global PCB market exceeding US$80 billion in 2024 and China holding the largest share of production, Uzbekistan aims to leverage China's mature manufacturing ecosystem and expertise to develop its own domestic capacity.

If realized, the partnership could mark the first large-scale entry of Chinese PCB industry capital into Central Asia, aligning with the broader Belt and Road initiative's push for technology-driven industrial cooperation. Uzbekistan seeks to build a complete value chain covering production, R&D, talent training, and exports — transforming itself from a resource exporter into a technology manufacturing hub.

As Uzbekistan continues to diversify its economy, the development of a local PCB industry could become a key step in reshaping Central Asia's role in the global electronics manufacturing landscape.