Zeal Global Expanded Cargo Operations Into Central Asia
Logistics operators should track shifting trade routes as air freight infrastructure scales across the region.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Transportation
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Zeal Global Services Ltd. announced expansion plans into Central Asia at the Central Asia Air Cargo Summit in Tashkent. The move targets an air freight sector that has seen significant recent growth, with Uzbekistan recording a 33% increase in cargo volumes during the first half of 2026.
Why it matters
The company identified the region as an underpenetrated market with high growth potential for air freight. This expansion aligns with regional infrastructure development as Uzbekistan aims to grow its annual air freight capacity to 300,000 tonnes by 2036.
Uzbekistan's air cargo market grew 182% between 2019 and 2024, supported by a 33% volume increase in the first half of 2026. Tashkent International Airport alone processed 48,189.6 tonnes of freight during that same six-month period.
The players
Zeal Global Services Ltd.
A logistics and supply chain services firm focused on market intelligence, infrastructure development, and digital freight solutions.
The details
Zeal Global plans to execute its expansion through four pillars: market intelligence, digital enablement, sector-specific solutions, and infrastructure partnerships. These partnerships will leverage existing facilities at key hubs, including airports and cargo terminals in Tashkent, Navoi, and Almaty. The strategy relies on integrating these local logistical nodes into broader international trade flows as the regional capacity target approaches its 2036 objective.
Timeline
2019 to 2024 saw the Uzbekistan air cargo market grow by 182%.
Tashkent International Airport processed 88,080 tonnes of freight in 2025.
Uzbekistan cargo volumes increased 33% in the first half of 2026.
The Central Asia Air Cargo Summit occurred from September 30 to October 1, 2026.
The target date for reaching 300,000 tonnes of annual air freight capacity is 2036.
Market Landscape
Zeal Global's expansion follows a period of rapid infrastructure scaling and volume growth throughout the Central Asian logistics corridor. The move marks a shift toward capturing market share as regional authorities race to meet the 300,000-tonne annual capacity target established for 2036.
Operators currently working with logistics providers in Central Asia should reevaluate their transit routes and freight partner capacity. Monitor how regional cargo terminals in Tashkent, Navoi, and Almaty adapt their processing speeds as these new service capabilities are introduced.
The takeaway
Central Asia is emerging as a high-growth logistics hub supported by significant recent capacity increases in Uzbekistan. Managers should watch for further competitive announcements from partners operating at major transit nodes like Tashkent and Almaty.
Further reading
For more on industry infrastructure developments, visit our Transportation section.
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