Tashkent (TDI): Uzbekistan and South Africa have agreed to broaden cooperation in the energy sector following talks between Bahodirjon Siddiqov, Chairman of JSC Uzbekneftegaz, and a delegation led by Dr. Sarushen Pillay, Executive Vice President of South African energy giant Sasol.
The discussions highlighted Sasol’s role as a key licensor in Uzbekistan’s Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) project, which has now reached full design capacity. During their visit to the GTL plant, Sasol executives commended its performance and efficiency, noting that Uzbekistan has, for the first time, successfully mastered the production of synthetic liquid fuels with strong government backing.
Sasol reaffirmed its readiness to provide long-term technical support, including the supply of catalysts critical for ongoing operations. Both sides also explored new avenues for collaboration, particularly in advancing investment projects and expanding into sustainable aviation fuel production.
The meeting also underscored the strategic importance of diversifying Uzbekistan’s energy mix at a time when global markets are shifting toward cleaner fuels. Officials stressed that partnerships with international players such as Sasol would not only strengthen local expertise but also accelerate the country’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions.
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Industry analysts note that the Uzbekistan GTL project has the potential to become a regional hub for synthetic fuel production, helping reduce dependence on imports and enhancing energy security across Central Asia. The cooperation with Sasol, a global leader in the field, is expected to bring in advanced technology and operational know-how.
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Looking ahead, both sides emphasized that their collaboration will be long-term and focused on innovation, investment, and mutual benefit. By expanding joint projects and exploring new technologies such as sustainable aviation fuel, Uzbekistan and South Africa are positioning themselves at the forefront of global energy transformation.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
