Telko has a solid track record of over 10 years of distributing and providing solutions for converters and brand owners in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in Central Asia. We have established a solid presence in the mining sector, while also maintaining strong connections within the home and personal care markets. Additionally, our rapidly growing collaboration with the paints and coatings industry is creating numerous opportunities that deliver value to both suppliers and manufacturers.
With a population of 20 million in Kazakhstan and 40 million in Uzbekistan, Central Asia offers vast market potential for a wide range of products. The region’s shared languages and strong cultural ties create significant opportunities for business scaling. Drawing from our extensive experience in the area, we have gained valuable insights into the key factors to consider when planning to enter this market.
1. Build a network of local knowledge
There is no greater asset for a supplier than having a local connection who can facilitate introductions to the right manufacturers.
Attending local seminars and industry-specific fairs is essential for bringing together technical specialists and fostering discussions on new developments and emerging trends. At Telko, we take pride in our extensive local networks and continuously expand them, working to connect customers across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and vice versa.
Telko does not only help suppliers reach local manufacturers, but we also keep updating the technical knowledge of our staff, who can then pass on the information. Through training on material properties and access to the testing facilities of our principals, we empower our team to pass on the latest and most accurate information, helping customers develop their products with the best insights available.
2. Develop a robust logistics strategy
A glimpse at the map of Central Asia reveals that the area is logistically quite challenging, to put it lightly. Bordered by mountains on one side, an inland sea on another and vast plains on the third, with no direct access to waterways, transporting goods requires innovative solutions.
We’ve addressed the distance between production sites and manufacturing customers by placing logistics at the heart of our market approach. To mitigate the risk of delays, we maintain safety stocks in local warehouses across the biggest business areas. Our logistics routes are designed with international sanctions in mind, utilizing rail and truck transport to deliver products from manufacturers to customers.
On one hand, it’s about safety of supply; on the other, trusting that regulations and rules are abided by. We assure both our principals and potential partners that we operate in full compliance with all applicable rules, and we hold the same commitment to our local customers.
3. Prepare for the growing importance of ESG and other regulations
The importance of adhering to regulations in every aspect of core business is growing—and it could soon become a prerequisite for operating. With stricter demands in Western markets, partnering with a Western distributor ensures that no critical steps are overlooked in meeting your goals.
Telko is one of the first Western distributors in the region and a leader in advancing environmental and social responsibility, as well as good governance practices. In practice this means, for example, holding workshops on sustainability with local partners, developing employee safety and work conditions with training, and mapping out product data for value chain analysis.
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Telko is a trusted distribution partner, offering reliable logistics, regulatory compliance, and valuable insights into the local market. With over 10 years of experience, we have established a strong presence in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, making us a key player in the Central Asian region. Are you planning to enter the Central Asian market as a supplier? Reach out to our team, and we’ll help you navigate the market and achieve success.
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