World's fourth-largest natural gas reserves — critical energy partner for China
📥 Download PDFInvestment Cooperation Guide — Turkmenistan (2026 Edition) | Published by AERI
Turkmenistan possesses the world's fourth-largest natural gas reserves and is a critical energy partner for China. AERI's research reveals that Turkmenistan, despite its closed political system, offers significant investment opportunities in the energy sector through the China-Central Asia Gas Pipeline.
In 2024, GDP approximately USD 55 billion. Population approximately 6.5 million. Turkmenistan supplies over 30 billion cubic metres of natural gas to China annually via the Central Asia Gas Pipeline.
Area: 488,100 km². Capital: Ashgabat. Population approximately 6.5 million. Currency: Manat (TMT). World's fourth-largest natural gas reserves.
Highly state-controlled economy. Foreign investment primarily in energy sector through government-to-government agreements. Corporate tax 20%. VAT 15%. Investment opportunities limited outside energy sector.
China is Turkmenistan's largest gas customer. Key projects: Central Asia Gas Pipeline (Lines A, B, C), Galkynysh gas field development. CNPC is the primary Chinese operator.
Compiled by: Asia Economic Research Institute | April 2026
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