Rethinking Central Asian Economic Integration Amid Slowbalization

Abstract

This research critically examines the challenges and opportunities for economic integration in Central Asia in the context of impact of slowbalization. It focuses on how the deceleration of globalization affects the region’s economic stability, interdependence, and prospects for deeper regional cooperation. The paper also evaluates the competing influence of two major multilateral frameworks: the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) on Central Asian regional integration. Although these initiatives contribute to infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and external connectivity, they may also redirect attention away from intraregional cooperation among Central Asian states. Using empirical data from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, the analysis examines key economic indicators, including national GDP, labour migration and remittances, and foreign direct investment, in order to assess both structural challenges and patterns of economic interdependence within the region. The study argues that, amid slowbalization, Central Asia’s integration prospects depend not only on external frameworks such as the BRI and EAEU but also on the capacity of regional states to strengthen intraregional trade, institutional coordination, and long-term economic resilience.