Asif Razzaq
Senior Research Specialist, CAREC Institute

Asif Razzaq researches investment ecosystems, energy transition, digitalization, and climate change, leading several projects across CAREC countries. He has published reports and papers in reputable journals and policy report, earning more than 13,000 citations. Recognized among the world’s top 2% researchers by Stanford University and Elsevier in 2023–2025, he is a highly cited Chinese researcher. He has worked in the banking sector, focusing on SME financing. He holds a PhD in Economic System Analysis and Management from Dalian University of Technology, People's Republic of China.

Summary

How Central Asia Can Strengthen Renewable Energy Investment

Investment facilitation, stronger grids, financing systems, and delivery capacity can help turn renewable potential into investments.

   Georgia; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Republic; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Uzbekistan; Capacity development; Climate change; Economics
   SDG: Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy; Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Goal 13: Climate Action
Policy Brief

Analyzing Digital Foreign Investments in CAREC Countries

Enhancing internet connectivity, data security, and workers’ digital skills can reduce the digital gap in Central Asia.

   Economics; Information and communications technology; Regional cooperation and integration
   SDG: Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Summary

Analyzing Technology and Productivity Spillovers from Chinese FDIs to CAREC Countries

FDI-recipient countries show positive growth in productivity but their technology gains depend on absorption capacity.

   Afghanistan; Azerbaijan; China, People's Republic of; Georgia; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Republic; Mongolia; Pakistan; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Uzbekistan; Economics; Industry and trade; Information and communications technology
   SDG: Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure