Kazakhstan's KazMunayGas, through its subsidiary KMG PetroChem, and Uzbekistan's Uzbekneftegaz are accelerating the development of a joint linear alkylbenzene (LAB) production complex.

Construction of the plant in Kashkadarya Region began in the fall of 2025. During a recent meeting, officials reviewed progress and outlined steps to complete the project’s technical and economic feasibility study as quickly as possible, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

LAB is a key ingredient in detergents and household chemicals. Local production is expected to reduce dependence on imports and create additional export opportunities for both countries.

The project is part of a broader initiative launched by the presidents of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in November 2025, with total investments amounting to $1.2 billion. The petrochemical complex is a central element of the agreement, highlighting growing industrial cooperation between the two nations.