The article examines the nature and main directions of the trade and economic policy of Tsarist Russia in Turkestan during the second half of the 19th century and the early 20th century. Under conditions of colonial subjugation, the Russian Empire aimed to integrate Turkestan into the imperial economic system, using it as a primary source of raw materials and a market for industrial goods. Stimulating cotton production played a significant role in supplying raw materials to the empire’s textile industry. At the same time, a protectionist policy was implemented to safeguard Russian producers and merchants. The article analyzes measures to develop transport infrastructure, expand trade and financial relations, and their impact on the economy and socio-economic condition of the peoples of Turkestan amid the transformation of the region’s traditional economic structure.