Uzbekistan has once again become a net exporter of gas

In the first two months of this year, Uzbekistan exported gas worth $42 million, while imports amounted to $35.8 million. The increase in exports, despite the ongoing decline in gas production and the growing deficit, raises questions.

In January-February 2025, Uzbekistan exported natural gas worth $42 million. This is 57.3% more compared to the same period last year ($26.7 million), according to data from the Statistics Committee.

In February alone, gas sales amounted to $20.2 million, which is 3.54 times higher than in February last year ($5.7 million). At the same time, gas imports during this period amounted to $35.8 million. In particular, in February, purchases decreased to $8 million — 16.4 times less than last year. Since the beginning of the year, imports have decreased sixfold: from $166.7 million to $35.8 million.

For reference, in February, gas production in Uzbekistan dropped by 208.8 million cubic meters, reaching 3.5 billion cubic meters. Since the beginning of the year, total production has declined by 4.2%.

Earlier, it was reported that in 2024, Uzbekistan purchased gas from Russia and Turkmenistan for $1.7 billion — 2.4 times more than in 2023 and six times more than in 2022. At the same time, the value of gas exports increased by 18%, reaching $628 million. However, the prices at which the country imports and exports gas are not disclosed, as they are considered "commercial secrets."

It is worth noting that five years ago, officials stated that starting from January 1, 2025, Uzbekistan might completely cease natural gas exports.

All information was obtained from the website www.kun.uz