Hong Kong is set to restore direct air connectivity with Almaty, Kazakhstan, in the first quarter of 2027, marking a key step in strengthening links between the city and Central Asia.
The announcement was made by Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu during a high-level visit to the region, where he is leading a government and business delegation aimed at expanding international partnerships.
The planned resumption of flights is expected to improve travel convenience, support trade, and encourage greater investment flows between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. Business leaders have welcomed the move, describing direct air links as a crucial factor in deepening economic cooperation with Central Asian markets.
Direct flights between Hong Kong and Almaty were previously operated by Kazakhstan’s national carrier Air Astana. However, the service was suspended in 2020 during the global Covid-19 pandemic and has not resumed since.
The planned relaunch comes as Hong Kong seeks to expand its international aviation network and strengthen its role as a global financial and logistics hub. Officials say improved connectivity with emerging markets is a priority in the city’s long-term economic strategy.
Alongside the aviation announcement, Hong Kong authorities have also begun discussions with Kazakhstan on establishing a Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement. The proposed deal would help reduce tax barriers for businesses operating across both jurisdictions.
Such agreements are designed to prevent companies and individuals from being taxed twice on the same income, making cross-border investment more attractive and reducing administrative costs for international firms.
Officials say the tax talks are part of a broader effort to improve the business environment between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan, particularly as both sides look to diversify economic partnerships beyond traditional markets.
Kazakhstan, the largest economy in Central Asia, has been increasing efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen its role as a regional transport and trade hub. Improved air connectivity with Hong Kong is expected to support tourism, business travel, and cargo movement.
Hong Kong, meanwhile, continues to position itself as a gateway between mainland China and international markets. Strengthening links with Central Asia is seen as part of a wider strategy to deepen economic engagement along emerging trade corridors.
Analysts say the return of direct flights could help reduce travel times significantly and remove a major barrier for businesses seeking to operate between the two regions. Currently, travelers often rely on indirect routes through other major Asian hubs.
The resumption of air services is also expected to benefit the aviation and tourism sectors in both Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. Airlines may gain access to new passenger flows, while tourism boards on both sides anticipate increased visitor numbers once direct connectivity is restored.
The decision reflects growing interest in strengthening economic ties between East Asia and Central Asia, particularly in areas such as trade, logistics, finance, and infrastructure development.
While no specific airline has been officially confirmed for the relaunch, aviation observers note that Kazakhstan’s Air Astana previously operated the route and could play a role in its revival.
The planned flights are expected to support not only passenger travel but also potential cargo services, which could further enhance trade links between the two economies.
The announcement forms part of a broader diplomatic and economic outreach by Hong Kong authorities as they seek to expand global partnerships and attract international investment.
With preparations underway, officials on both sides are expected to continue technical discussions over scheduling, regulatory approval, and commercial arrangements in the coming months.
If implemented as planned, the restored Hong Kong–Almaty connection would represent a significant step in rebuilding air links that were disrupted during the pandemic and in opening new opportunities for regional cooperation between Asia and Central Asia.
