The United States has intensified its interest in Central Asia following China’s decision to restrict exports of rare earth elements. Amid the broader U.S.–China trade rivalry, Washington is seeking to diversify its sources of strategic raw materials and strengthen economic ties with countries in the region.

Analysts note that Central Asia is increasingly viewed as a key part of Washington’s strategy to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains. However, they point to several obstacles, including high logistics costs, underdeveloped export infrastructure, and what they describe as a high-risk investment environment that limits the commercial viability of many projects.

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan: Pillars of U.S. Engagement

Among the countries of the region, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan offer the greatest potential for rare earth element extraction and present favorable conditions for U.S. cooperation. Kazakhstan is strengthening its partnerships with Western investors in the mining sector, while Uzbekistan has implemented market reforms and opened its economy to foreign capital in recent years.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, currently visiting the U.S., has reiterated his government’s interest in attracting American investment and technology, including through the C5+1 regional format. After his visit to Washington, he is scheduled to travel to Moscow for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on November 12, reflecting Kazakhstan’s longstanding policy of balancing relations among major powers.

Kyrgyzstan Banks on the Digital Economy

Lacking major oil and gas reserves, Kyrgyzstan is pursuing a different path by developing partnerships with the U.S. in financial technology and digital assets.

During talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov said the country’s most valuable asset is its educated youth, who are increasingly active in the IT sector. Japarov outlined several initiatives, including the introduction of digital financial instruments such as the national stablecoin KGST.

He also noted the importance of the U.S. Genius Act, which regulates stablecoin circulation, calling it one of the most progressive in the world. In response, the U.S. expressed its readiness to expand cooperation in digital transformation and fintech development.

Tajikistan Prioritizes Energy and Security

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon participated in the C5+1 summit in Washington and held separate talks with President Trump. The discussions focused on energy, investment, and regional security.

Rahmon said that peace and stability are essential for sustainable development and reaffirmed Tajikistan’s readiness to expand cooperation with the U.S. in green energy and regional electricity transmission projects.

At present, more than 70 U.S.-affiliated companies operate in Tajikistan. American investment in mineral extraction and processing is viewed as a promising area for future collaboration. The two sides also discussed joint efforts to combat transnational threats, including terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking.

Turkmenistan Maintains Its Neutral Stance

In contrast to the active diplomatic engagements of its neighbors, Turkmenistan continues to adhere to its traditional policy of neutrality. Ashgabat has so far refrained from joining initiatives that could be perceived as aligning with geopolitical blocs. Nonetheless, the U.S. remains interested in Turkmenistan’s energy potential, particularly regarding prospects for diversifying gas exports to Europe through the Caspian corridor.

Navigating Between Washington, Moscow, and Beijing

Central Asian countries continue to navigate the competing interests of Russia, China, and the United States, seeking to leverage this rivalry to their advantage. For Washington, the region remains strategically important as a source of critical raw materials, a transit corridor, and a partner in maintaining stability across the broader Eurasian space.

Ultimately, the success of U.S. engagement in Central Asia will depend not only on diplomatic momentum but also on Washington’s ability to provide credible economic alternatives to those offered by China and Russia.