Economy

Winds of Change on Kazak-Kyrgyz Border

Kazakstan may be less jumpy about security in its smaller neighbour, but new customs arrangements could mean lax procedures are a thing of the past.

Common Market to Transform Kazakstan

Agreeing customs arrangements with Russia and Belarus just the first step towards greater economic viability.

Georgia's Neighbours Eye Plan to Sell Key Pipeline

Many Georgians oppose possible gas pipeline sale to Russia, while Armenia fears consequence if Azerbaijan buys stake in this key supply route.

Oil Smuggling Allegations Widen Baghdad-Erbil Rift

KRG tightens checks but dismisses Baghdad’s demand for probe into claims of oil smuggling to Iran.

Turkmenistan's Dubious Harvest Claims

Officials report high grain production but farmers say that is impossible given the current state of agriculture.

Customs Deal Brings Kazaks Closer to Russia

Joining customs union with Russia and Belarus means good as well as bad changes for Kazak businesses, economic expert argues.

Indebted Georgia on Borrowed Time?

Government confident it can ride out period of rising debt and low economic performance, but other economists question how sustainable this is.

Basra Fishermen See Bleak Future

They lament demise of their once-thriving livelihood, hit hard by combination of ecological and industrial problems.

Uzbekistan: Mystery Surrounds Zeromax Collapse

Uzbek Bus Blast Sparks Safety Checks