Kazakhstan has emerged as the least dependent on China among Central Asian nations.

The analysis highlights stark differences across the region in terms of debt exposure to China. Kyrgyzstan ranks highest, with Chinese loans accounting for 30.5% of its total debt, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

It is followed by:

Tajikistan - 16.1%

Turkmenistan - 13.4%

Uzbekistan - 7.5%

At the bottom of the list is Kazakhstan, with just 3.6%, significantly lower than its regional peers.

Experts note that a higher share of Chinese debt can increase economic pressure and limit a country’s room for maneuver. In contrast, Kazakhstan’s relatively low exposure suggests greater financial flexibility and reduced political risk.

Beyond debt levels, analysts also point to Kazakhstan’s diversified approach to foreign investment. Chinese capital in the country is not heavily concentrated in strategic sectors, further strengthening economic resilience.