Hong Kong and Uzbekistan ink 30-day visa-free deal, direct flights this year
Direct flights from Hong Kong to Tashkent launch in 2026, visa-free travel for 30 days...
Deep Dive
Direct flights between Hong Kong and Tashkent are expected to launch this year, according to sources, as talks begin on a reciprocal 30-day visa-free stay agreement to boost trade, tourism, and regional ties. The new route follows Cathay Pacific’s planned service to Almaty, Kazakhstan, set for the first quarter of next year. The route is expected to benefit from the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which is set to be completed by 2030, strengthening Central Asia-Hong Kong ties.
Key Points
- Reciprocal 30-day visa-free stay between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan announced.
- Direct flights between Hong Kong and Tashkent to begin in 2026.
- Cathay Pacific will launch Hong Kong-Almaty service in Q1 2027; railway project linking China to Europe via Uzbekistan set for 2030.
Why It Matters
Simplifies business travel and tourism, opening a new corridor between Hong Kong and Central Asia.