International Integration and the Structure of Exports in Central Asian Republics

Abstract:     
The break-up of the Soviet Union led to a collapse in Central Asian Republics' external economic relations. Subsequent international integration is followed with a framework and methods applied to East-Central Europe. Results show a move towards increasing reliance on raw materials with no specific international ties. Exports of complex manufactured goods, generally to specific countries, are very low, as are their quality indicators. The Uzbek motor industry may not have a secure future. Differences between countries are small, despite substantial differences in policy orientations, suggesting that an unwelcoming atmosphere for foreign business restricts international integration of manufacturing industry.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 29

Keywords: Central Asia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Eurasian Economic Community, economics of transition, economic development, foreign trade, GDP, international integration, composition of exports, autarkic industrialization

JEL Classification: F14, F40, O11, P50

Accepted Paper Series