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Kazakhstan — Daily

Kazakhstan Daily: Tenge hits 540 as dollar surges, exchange rates rise, and Tokayev secures $15B in China

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Politics

Lower House Takes Up Draft Digital Code and Accompanying Bills

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis has formally placed the draft Digital Code and related accompanying documents on its agenda, initiating the lower house’s review process. The package is designed to consolidate and update regulations governing digital technologies, online personal security, and sectoral digital transformation. Acceptance for consideration signals the start of committee work, expert review, and potential amendments before a second reading and Senate review. While details of the draft’s provisions were not disclosed in initial reports, the code is expected to address data governance, cybersecurity, and digital services oversight—areas critical to fintech, telecoms, and e‑government providers. The timing positions lawmakers to align regulatory frameworks with ongoing state digitalization programs ahead of 2026 planning cycles, giving businesses an early marker that compliance and operational standards in digital domains may change once the code is enacted.

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Lawmakers Push Harsher Penalties for Dual Citizenship as Interior Ministry Signals Openness

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s parliament is weighing tougher penalties for holding or concealing a second citizenship, a practice prohibited by the Constitution but currently punished mainly by administrative fines of about KZT 690,000. AMANAT MP Bolatbek Nazhmetdinuly urged elevating liability to criminal sanctions, arguing that offenders exploit full rights and benefits while evading accountability and, in some cases, leaving the country before enforcement actions can proceed due to procedural limits and lack of extradition with certain states.

"We will initiate amendments to tighten liability up to criminal punishment for those with dual citizenship." - MP Bolatbek Nazhmetdinuly (aikyn.kz)

Interior Minister Yerzhan Sadenov said the ministry is ready to discuss the proposal, framing it as a national security issue.

"We are prepared to discuss this. Since it concerns national security and public order, we are, of course, ready to consider it." - Interior Minister Yerzhan Sadenov (inform.kz)

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Draft Election Law Tightens Candidate Rules and Campaign Oversight

Published: 2025-09-03

Lawmakers introduced constitutional amendments to refine election procedures, restricting candidates to a single constituency and prohibiting simultaneous runs for the Mazhilis and local maslihats. Prospective akims would be required to establish mandatory campaign funds. Eligibility bars would extend to presidential, parliamentary, akim, and Central Election Commission candidates with convictions for serious or particularly serious crimes. The bill clarifies campaigning rules and adds administrative liability for violations, signaling closer regulatory scrutiny in upcoming cycles. The proposal aims to streamline candidate pipelines and standardize financing obligations, potentially affecting party nomination strategies and independents’ entry costs. The draft will proceed to parliamentary debate, where implementation timelines and enforcement mechanisms will be key.

"The goal of the constitutional bill is to improve election procedures and introduce administrative liability for non-compliance with electoral norms." - Snezhana Imasheva, Chair of the Legislation and Judicial-Legal Reform Committee (egemen.kz)

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Budget Bill for 2026–2028 Introduced to Lower House for Review

Published: 2025-09-03

Lawmakers opened the new session with the initial general meeting of the Mazhilis on 3 September 2025, where a conclusion on the draft law “On the Republican Budget for 2026–2028” was presented, according to Zakon.kz. The item signals the start of Kazakhstan’s annual budget cycle, during which allocations, including those tied to the National Fund’s transfers, are typically defined before year-end. Procedurally, the bill will move through committee scrutiny and plenary debates before passage and subsequent Senate review. While specific figures on yearly allocations from the National Fund were not disclosed in the report, the step indicates the government’s timetable for setting medium-term fiscal priorities, with implications for public investment, social spending, and macroeconomic planning over the next three years.

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Lower House Advances Amendments to Constitutional Law on Elections

Published: 2025-09-03

Lawmakers in the Mazhilis accepted a draft to consider amendments and additions to the Constitutional Law on Elections, signaling potential procedural or structural updates to how national votes are conducted. While the bill’s specifics were not disclosed, acceptance for review marks the start of a legislative process that typically includes committee scrutiny, debate, and possible revisions before a plenary vote. Any changes to the constitutional election framework could affect party registration, candidate nomination, campaign rules, or electoral administration. The move aligns with ongoing institutional reforms and may influence timelines and compliance requirements for political parties and election bodies. Details on implementation, transition periods, and stakeholder consultations will be key to assessing operational impact once the draft’s text is made public.

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Water Utility Pay Rises Set for September after Law Changes Align Sector with Energy Wages

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan has enacted amendments to the Law on Natural Monopolies, enabling salary increases for water management personnel to reach levels comparable to the energy sector. The Water Resources and Irrigation Ministry and the National Economy Ministry are finalizing implementing regulations, with pay rises taking effect from September. More than 25,000 employees across water supply and wastewater services will benefit, with average increases of 35–50% depending on region and official statistics. The reform, initiated last year and signed into law in June, follows earlier measures: in 2024, Kazvodkhoz (Kazsushar) staff saw a 25% raise. The move signals a push to stabilize critical utilities, improve retention in regional operators, and narrow wage disparities with higher-paid energy sector peers.

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Parliament Opens New Session with Reform Agenda, Tightens Laws and Preps Budget Priorities

Published: 2025-09-03

"On September 8, a joint session of Parliament will be held where the President, as per tradition, will deliver his Address to the Nation and set new tasks before us." - Erlan Koshanov, Mazhilis Speaker (egemen.kz)

Kazakhstan’s Parliament convened a joint sitting to mark the start of a new session, highlighting a busy legislative year: the Mazhilis held 39 plenaries, reviewed 249 items, and passed 90 laws; the Senate approved 75 of 89 bills and returned 14. Social measures included preserving free basic primary medical care at first contact for all, adding oncology screening to guaranteed services, and enabling local funding of hearing aids for children. Education changes created the “Keleshek” voluntary savings scheme and opened grant pathways, including Bolashak, for top-performing students. Criminal law amendments toughened penalties for online fraud and forced marriage, and banned face-obscuring clothing, while distinguishing liability between drug distributors and users; amnesty measures reduced sentences for 15,000 and freed nearly 2,000. Senators advanced new Budget, Tax and Water Codes, and laws on Turkistan’s special status, aquaculture, territorial defense, and endowment funds. Upcoming debates will address anti-LGBT propaganda restrictions, MHI system abuses, stricter building compliance, regulation of psychological services, and addiction treatment standards.

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Economy

Tenge Weakens as Dollar Touches 540 on KASE

Published: 2025-09-03

The tenge depreciated further on the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), with the U.S. dollar reaching 540 KZT during daytime trading on September 3. Exchange updates from Inform.kz and Zakon.kz indicate continued pressure on the currency through the afternoon session, signaling persistent FX demand and fragile sentiment. While detailed volumes and cross-rates were not disclosed in the briefs, the return to the 540 level underscores heightened volatility that has characterized recent sessions. For corporates and importers, the move implies higher local-currency costs for dollar-denominated inputs and potential adjustments to pricing and hedging strategies. Market participants will watch for National Bank communications, liquidity operations, and any fiscal flows that could stabilize the rate into the close and subsequent sessions. No official statements were provided in the reports.

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Tenge Weakens Slightly as Exchange Offices Lift Dollar, Euro Rates Across Major Cities

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s tenge eased on September 3, with the National Bank setting the official rates at KZT 539.55 per USD, KZT 627.55 per EUR, and KZT 6.70 per RUB (aikyn.kz). KASE’s daytime session put the dollar at KZT 540.18, up KZT 0.55 (informburo.kz). Exchange offices reflected marginal depreciation: in Almaty, average quotes were KZT 538.61–540.52 per USD and KZT 625.47–630.07 per EUR; in Astana, KZT 537.00–542.00 per USD and KZT 624.00–634.00 per EUR; in Shymkent, KZT 538.70–541.70 per USD and KZT 624.91–629.87 per EUR (malim.kz). Zakon.kz reported similar ranges by late morning on September 3. The spread between the official and cash market rates remains modest, signaling orderly liquidity and limited FX pressure, while intraday moves suggest cautious positioning around the 540-per-dollar level.

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September Deadlines Set for Tax Declarations and Payments, Authorities Flag Forms 250 and 270

Published: 2025-09-03

Almaty’s State Revenue Department reminds taxpayers of key September 2025 filing and payment deadlines, highlighting the obligation to submit Forms 250 and 270 and settle associated taxes and mandatory payments. The notices underscore timely compliance for individuals and entities subject to personal income, social, and other statutory contributions. While detailed calendars were referenced, the emphasis is on meeting reporting requirements within the month to avoid penalties and ensure continuity in tax accounts. The guidance indicates continued enforcement of standard quarterly and monthly cycles for declarations, with electronic submission channels remaining the primary method. No new tax rates or policy changes were announced in these updates; the focus is operational—compliance and punctual submission of the specified forms and payments during September.

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Energy Ministry Rebuts Reports of 2% Output Rise, Citing August Decline from July

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s Energy Ministry denied media claims that national oil production rose 2% in August. The ministry reported average output at 1.712 million barrels per day in August, down by roughly 48,000 bpd from July. The clarification signals continued adherence to production discipline and helps calibrate expectations for export flows through CPC and other routes. While August volumes dipped month-on-month, officials highlighted broader sector momentum with investment plans, refinery upgrades, and infrastructure modernization intended to support stable growth and energy security. The ministry reiterated that misreporting can distort market perceptions at a time of ongoing OPEC+ coordination and scheduled maintenance at large fields. Longer term, authorities outlined an ambition to reach an annual output level near 100 million tonnes as projects mature and processing capacity expands. No immediate policy shifts were announced alongside the correction of the August figures.

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OPEC+ Weighs Potential Output Increase to Balance Prices and Market Share

Published: 2025-09-03

OPEC+ members are set to meet in the coming days to discuss a potential increase in oil production, a move that could define the balance between supporting prices and defending market share. The deliberations come as producers assess demand signals and the durability of recent price gains. For Kazakhstan, a participant in the OPEC+ framework, any adjustment would influence export volumes, budget revenues, and pipeline scheduling, particularly through CPC routes. An output rise could temper Brent prices and moderate inflationary pressures on fuel-importing partners, while a hold or deeper cut would bolster prices but constrain volumes. Market watchers will be looking for guidance on compliance, baseline adjustments, and the timing and scale of any phased increases, which will shape regional fiscal planning and corporate drilling strategies.

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Tighter Checks at Currency Exchange Offices; Outdoor Rate Boards Banned from September 2025

Published: 2025-09-03

Authorities will tighten customer due diligence at currency exchange points to align with anti–money laundering requirements. Client identity verification will be strengthened, the list of offshore jurisdictions will be clarified, and know-your-customer procedures for buying and selling gold bars will be tougher. From 9 September 2025, exchanges will be prohibited from displaying exchange rates on exterior boards; rates may be shown only inside premises. The changes come as ruble net sales at exchange offices reached 53.2 billion tenge in July, a 5.6-fold increase since the start of the year. For market participants, the stricter KYC and disclosure limits signal closer supervision of cash foreign-exchange operations and precious metals trading, potentially affecting visibility of street pricing and shifting more activity inside regulated venues.

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U.S. Trade Mission Explores New Investment and Localization Projects with Astana

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s Investment Committee met a U.S. Chamber of Commerce trade mission led by Senior Vice President Khush Choksy to expand bilateral projects and build new supply chains with American companies. The 25-firm delegation included Apple, Boeing, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, Bechtel, Honeywell, Mastercard, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Meta, Ericsson, John Deere, and others. Officials highlighted ongoing U.S. engagement—over 600 American companies operate locally and cumulative U.S. FDI exceeds $60 billion—creating momentum for fresh ventures. Discussions covered localization and expansion across machinery, food production, fintech, and industrial tech, including John Deere assembly in Kostanay, a PepsiCo salty snacks plant, high-tech manufacturing and assembly, and payment infrastructure upgrades. Delegates also emphasized infrastructure, industrialization, innovation, and sustainable technologies, along with the Middle Corridor’s strategic role. The meeting concluded with readiness on both sides to scale investment cooperation and launch new joint projects.

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Regulator Updates Rules for Calculating Borrowers’ Debt Burden for Banks and MFIs

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market adopted amendments to several regulatory acts governing banking and microfinance activities, revising how lenders calculate a borrower’s debt burden. The Board’s decision, dated 22 August 2025, aims to refine borrower assessment standards and align practices across banks and microfinance organizations. While the official notice did not provide granular details, such changes typically affect debt-to-income calculations, eligible income documentation, and thresholds for responsible lending. The move follows ongoing efforts to tighten consumer protection and ensure prudent risk management in retail credit. Market participants should monitor forthcoming guidance or implementing rules that may specify calculation methodologies, transitional timelines, and compliance expectations. No official statements from named individuals were included in the initial report.

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First Bulk Sunflower Oil Shipment Sent to China Using Flexitank Containers

Published: 2025-09-03

An initial 156-ton shipment of sunflower oil has been dispatched from East Kazakhstan Region to Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China, utilizing 40-foot containers equipped with flexitanks. The move underscores growing agro-industrial trade between the countries and highlights logistics diversification through bulk liquid containerization, which can lower transport costs and speed delivery compared to traditional tankers. The flexitank method allows scalable shipments suited to container rail corridors linking Kazakhstan and eastern China. While details on exporters, pricing, and frequency were not disclosed, the shipment signals capacity to expand processed agricultural exports beyond raw commodities. Further regular consignments would indicate deepening supply chain integration and potential investments in oilseed processing and logistics infrastructure within Kazakhstan’s eastern regions.

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Auto Industry’s Growth Probed as Analysts Weigh Profitability and Consumer Trust

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazinform reports on the rapid expansion of the domestic auto industry, examining sector revenues and the effectiveness of local vehicle manufacturing. The piece explores how automotive production has become a dynamic pillar of the economy, while assessing whether output translates into sustained profitability and market confidence. It considers operational efficiency, value-added localization, and sales performance to gauge the sector’s contribution to national income. The analysis also looks at consumer sentiment—specifically whether drivers trust locally assembled models—alongside industry capacity and policy support shaping competitiveness. For international observers, the key takeaway is the dual focus on financial returns and demand-side credibility, indicating that future growth hinges on both production economics and public confidence in “made-in-country” vehicles. No direct statements or official quotes were provided in the source.

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Special Economic Zone in Turkistan Expanded by 327 Hectares Following Cabinet Decree

Published: 2025-09-03

The government approved an expansion of the TURAN special economic zone (SEZ) in Turkistan Region, enlarging its territory from 4,087.39 hectares to 4,414.39 hectares under Cabinet Decree No. 693 dated August 28, 2025. The 327-hectare increase signals continued prioritization of SEZ-led industrial growth and investment facilitation in southern Kazakhstan, where Turkistan has been positioned as a logistics and manufacturing hub. While the decree formalizes the land addition, authorities did not provide details on targeted industries, infrastructure commitments, or incentives linked to the expansion. International investors can expect the enlarged footprint to accommodate new projects and potentially diversify beyond current SEZ portfolios. Further guidance from the Ministry of National Economy or regional administration will clarify sectoral focus, timelines, and investor entry procedures. No official statements were quoted in the initial announcement.

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Diplomacy

Tokayev Concludes China Visit with Pledged $15B Investments and New Joint Projects

Published: 2025-09-03

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev wrapped up an official visit to China, where Beijing signaled elevated political and economic engagement with Kazakhstan. Chinese and Kazakh sides highlighted forthcoming joint projects and a reported $15 billion investment commitment, indicating a push to deepen industrial cooperation, infrastructure ties, and technology transfer. The trip also featured the launch of a "Trans-Altai Dialogue" platform to structure strategic discussions and long-term collaboration. For Kazakhstan, the outcomes suggest near-term capital inflows and expanded market access, with potential benefits for logistics corridors linking Central Asia and China. The visit underscores Astana’s balancing strategy to attract large-scale Chinese investment while advancing domestic modernization goals and diversifying partners across energy, manufacturing, and transport. No direct statements from officials were provided in the source texts suitable for quotation.

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German Tour Operators Explore Expanded Ties as DRV Weighs 2026 Forum in Kazakhstan

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan and Germany moved to deepen tourism cooperation during meetings between Deputy Prime Minister Yermek Kosherbayev and a delegation from Germany’s Travel Association (DRV) and leading tour operators. Discussions centered on positioning Kazakhstan as a new destination for the German market and considering hosting the DRV Destination Forum in Kazakhstan in 2026, a marquee industry event that could boost visibility and B2B links. Delegates will visit Astana, Almaty, and Baikonur to assess product development and joint projects. Officials framed tourism as a strategic bridge to strengthen bilateral ties and diversify inbound markets, with Germany seen as a high-spend source.

"Tourism is not only an economic sector but also a bridge of trust between our countries." - Yermek Kosherbayev, Deputy Prime Minister (egemen.kz)

"Your country’s nature, rich culture, and modern development make it especially attractive for German travelers." - Norbert Fiebig, President, DRV (dknews.kz)

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Parliament Ratifies Armenia Travel Deal and Migration Cooperation, Enabling 90-Day Visa-Free Stays

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis approved two agreements with Armenia: a visa-free travel and stay regime for citizens and a cooperation pact on migration management. Once implemented, nationals of both countries can enter, exit, transit, relocate, and stay for up to 90 days using designated valid documents, streamlining short-term business and personal travel. The migration accord formalizes exchanges of statistical, legal, and methodological data, cooperation on residence status, detection of migration law violations, and joint disruption of illegal migration channels—measures aimed at improving enforcement and addressing dual citizenship issues. Lawmakers also moved forward with broader legislative work, including amendments to the constitutional election law, the 2026–2028 republican budget package and interbudgetary transfers, and a draft Digital Code with accompanying revisions, signaling a busy legislative calendar that could reshape administrative and digital governance frameworks.

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Tokayev Attends Beijing Military Parade and State Reception Marking WWII Victory Anniversary

Published: 2025-09-03

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev joined world leaders in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to view China’s military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in World War II and the defeat of Japanese militarism. Coverage notes more than 10,000 PLA personnel and 45 formations, with debuts of strategic systems, fourth-generation weapons, and counter-drone defenses. Tokayev also attended a state reception hosted by President Xi Jinping for visiting dignitaries. The visit follows cultural diplomacy events in China, including the opening of a Kazakhstan cultural center, underscoring ongoing high-level engagement between Astana and Beijing across political, defense, and cultural tracks. No official bilateral statements or agreements were reported in the cited articles. The symbolism of Kazakhstan’s presence aligns with its balancing approach to major powers and continued emphasis on strategic ties with China.

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Tokayev Courts Chinese Majors for Energy, Transport, and Digital Projects During Beijing Meetings

Published: 2025-09-03

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met leaders of CNPC, AIIB, Huawei, Sany Group, China Energy Engineering Group, CNNC, and CRRC in Beijing, advancing a slate of energy, infrastructure, and technology projects. Talks highlighted CNPC’s role in hydrocarbons, including Shymkent refinery modernization (to 12 mtpa), gas-chemicals expansion, and a urea plant in Aktobe. AIIB’s portfolio tops $2 billion across wind power, highways, and healthcare, with Kazakhstan positioning as a regional hub for green and smart tech finance. Huawei signed a strategic deal with Samruk-Kazyna on telecom innovation and server infrastructure, alongside ICT and AI talent development. Sany is building a 1 GW wind farm and launched a wind components plant. Energy China is weighing grid upgrades linking north–south, a data center, and waste-to-energy. CNNC discussions covered a potential second nuclear plant. CRRC deepened rail cooperation with locomotive deliveries and potential localization and service centers.

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Armenia Opens Entry to Kazakh Citizens with ID Cards as Visa‑Free Stay Shortened to 30 Days

Published: 2025-09-03

Armenia will now allow Kazakh citizens to enter using a national ID card instead of a passport, while the period they can remain without registration is reduced from 90 to 30 days under a new bilateral arrangement. Travelers needing longer stays can apply for a temporary residence permit to extend their time legally. This adjustment aligns with regional mobility trends that ease border formalities but tighten short-stay rules to encourage proper registration for extended visits. Professionals planning business trips or project work should account for the shorter unregistered stay and budget time for residence permit applications if activities exceed one month. No official statements or named spokespeople were cited in the report.

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Astana and Yerevan Tighten Migration Cooperation to Curb Dual Citizenship and Illegal Flows

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan and Armenia signed a cooperation framework to strengthen migration management through data-sharing and joint legal review of residents’ status. From Kazakhstan, the Interior Ministry and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection will lead; on the Armenian side, responsibility rests with the Police and the Migration and Citizenship Service of the Interior Ministry. The agreement provides for the exchange of statistical, legal, and methodological information, as well as data on each other’s nationals residing in their territories. The countries also plan coordinated support to resolve issues arising during cooperation. Authorities say the measures aim to prevent dual citizenship, block illegal migration channels, and improve the efficiency of migration processes. While implementation details were not disclosed, the institutional pairing suggests closer verification of residency and citizenship records and more consistent enforcement between the two systems.

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Infrastructure

Stricter Shared-Equity Housing Rules Tighten Cash Handling, Ads, and Mortgage Access with New Oversight Tools

Published: 2025-09-03

"We have introduced changes to protect equity holders’ rights and strengthen state oversight in shared construction." - Bakhytzhan Zhunisbekov, Chair, Construction and Utilities Committee (dknews.kz)

Kazakhstan has enacted amendments reshaping shared-equity housing. Developers must secure either a local authority (JAO) permit tied to a bank-supervised escrow model or a guarantee from the Unified Operator (Kazakhstan Housing Company, KTK). Equity buyers can no longer pay developers in cash; funds move through bank accounts with staged releases based on verified construction milestones. Penalties for illegal solicitation and advertising of equity participation have risen sevenfold, and banks are barred from issuing mortgages for projects lacking a JAO permit or Unified Operator guarantee. Eligibility thresholds for the Unified Operator guarantee were eased to bring more regional builders into the formal market, while a new Support Center advises buyers and lists verified projects. Public apps (Halyk, BCC, Eurasian, Jusan, eGov) now let users check permits/guarantees; about 530,000 users have used the service in 2025 to date.

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Thai AirAsia X to Launch Direct Bangkok–Almaty Flights from December 2025

Published: 2025-09-03

Thai AirAsia X will enter the Kazakhstan market with direct Bangkok–Almaty services starting 1 December 2025, operating four times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday). The expansion aligns with Kazakhstan’s ongoing push to broaden its international air links and diversify carriers. For business travelers, the new connection shortens transit times to Southeast Asia and improves access to Thailand’s logistics and tourism hubs, while potentially stimulating bilateral trade, investment, and MICE travel. For Kazakhstan’s aviation market, a new long-haul low-cost entrant could pressure fares on competing one-stop routes via regional hubs. Authorities frame the route as part of a broader strategy to expand flight geography and increase international frequencies, supporting tourism flows in both directions during high season and beyond.

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Methanol Gas-Chemical Complex Planned in West Kazakhstan Following SCO Business Council Meeting

Published: 2025-09-03

A memorandum of understanding was signed at the Kazakhstan–China Business Council during the SCO summit to build a methanol-producing gas-chemical complex in West Kazakhstan region. The agreement involves Baiterek Venture Fund (a subsidiary of Qazaqstan Investment Corporation), Xinjiang Sanbao Industry Group as the technology partner, and Zhaik Petroleum. The project is listed on Kazakhstan’s Unified Industrialization Map and aims to replace methanol imports. Commissioning is expected to lift regional manufacturing output by 10% and create 467 jobs, according to the QIC press service. The initiative signals deeper Sino–Kazakh industrial cooperation in petrochemicals, with potential downstream effects for domestic chemical supply chains and energy-linked manufacturing. No construction timeline or project cost was disclosed.

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Homebuyer Safeguards Strengthened for Mortgages on Unfinished Buildings

Published: 2025-09-03

"Securing a guarantee from Kazakhstan Housing Company JSC significantly strengthens mechanisms to protect apartment buyers’ rights." - Bakhytzhan Junisbekov, Chairman, Committee for Construction and Housing Utilities (inform.kz)

Kazakhstan’s construction regulator highlighted reinforced consumer protection for purchasers arranging mortgages through the Otbasy program on properties still under construction. Committee Chairman Bakhytzhan Junisbekov said developers obtaining a guarantee from Kazakhstan Housing Company (KHC) JSC materially bolster legal safeguards for buyers, addressing a key risk in off-plan sales. The emphasis on KHC guarantees suggests closer scrutiny of developer obligations and enhanced risk mitigation for lenders and borrowers in the presale market. For investors and homebuyers, this indicates that mortgage approvals for under-construction units may hinge on developers’ ability to secure KHC backing, potentially influencing project financing costs, eligibility, and timelines across the residential pipeline.

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New Methodology Introduced for Calculating Household Drinking Water Bills

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazakhstan has approved a new methodology for calculating payments for drinking water, signaling a shift in how utilities will bill households nationwide. While official details have not been disclosed in the brief announcement, the change suggests adjustments to tariff structures and measurement practices that could affect monthly expenses, particularly in regions facing water scarcity or infrastructure constraints. Utility providers and local governments are expected to update billing systems and inform consumers of implementation timelines and procedures. Businesses operating residential properties and service facilities should monitor forthcoming guidance for compliance and budgeting. The move aligns with broader efforts to modernize utility regulation and improve cost recovery in the water sector, a priority given periodic drought conditions and aging networks. Further specifics on metering standards, social norms, and subsidy mechanisms will determine the distributional impact on consumers and operators.

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Almaty Lawmakers Propose Staggered Classes, Remote Work and School Buses to Ease Traffic

Published: 2025-09-03

Almaty city deputies proposed shifting university and college schedules, expanding remote work, and introducing school buses for private schools to alleviate chronic congestion. Students in two shifts could start at 07:30 and 10:00–11:00, while banks, NGOs, notaries, and private firms would adopt partial online work. Public agencies would run 08:30–18:00. Officials argue peak-hour demand—not road capacity alone—drives gridlock. Police data indicate about 600,000 vehicles are registered in Almaty, with more than 350,000 entering and exiting daily. The measures are proposals; implementation details and legal adjustments are pending. Astana will test later start times for some utilities and state companies from September 15 as a parallel approach, suggesting potential national diffusion if results are positive.

"Shifting college and university start times and adjusting public-sector schedules will help regulate traffic flows, especially in the morning, freeing main arteries and enhancing infrastructure performance." - Karashash Dzhuzeyeva, Almaty City Maslikhat Deputy (informburo.kz)

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Almaty Police Require Registration for High-Power E-Bikes Classified as Mopeds

Published: 2025-09-03

Almaty police announced that electric bicycles exceeding 250 watts or capable of speeds over 25 km/h must be registered, as these models are classified as mopeds under Kazakhstan law. The clarification signals stricter enforcement for high-performance e-bikes, aligning them with moped regulations on registration and, potentially, licensing and insurance requirements. Riders using powerful e-bikes without proper registration risk fines. For businesses offering delivery services and individuals commuting on such vehicles, compliance will entail verifying motor output and speed capabilities, updating documentation, and ensuring vehicles meet moped standards. Lower-powered e-bikes under the thresholds remain exempt, but users should confirm specifications to avoid penalties as enforcement increases in the city.

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Society

Astana Man Detained over Alleged Visa Scam Targeting 60+ Victims, Losses Exceed 330 Million Tenge

Published: 2025-09-03

Prosecutors in Astana report the detention of a suspect accused of defrauding more than 60 individuals by promising long- and short-term visas to Europe, the U.S., and the UK. Investigators say the man allegedly used sham loan agreements to disguise transactions as civil contracts and evade criminal liability. Reported losses exceed 330 million tenge. The case is being investigated under Criminal Code Article 190, Part 4(2) (large-scale fraud), and a court approved pre-trial detention. Authorities are identifying all victims and conducting a pretrial investigation; if convicted, the suspect faces up to 10 years in prison with potential asset confiscation. The situation underscores persistent risks in visa facilitation schemes and heightened scrutiny of private intermediaries by law enforcement in the capital.

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Shardarа Education Chief Gets 10 Years, Eight Accountants Jailed in ₸12bn Embezzlement Case

Published: 2025-09-03

A specialized criminal court in Turkistan region convicted Shardara district’s education department head Akshagul Berdialiyeva and subordinates for large-scale budget embezzlement. Berdialiyeva received 10 years in prison; eight accountants were each sentenced to seven years. Three acting heads were found guilty of negligence. Four defendants were amnestied—one fully repaid damages and three had reached retirement age—while two mothers may defer serving sentences for five years. Criminally obtained assets, including about 20 movable/immovable properties and a jewelry outlet, were confiscated. Only partial restitution has been made; alleged individual gains ranged from ₸22 million to ₸200 million. The probe lasted roughly a year and produced 730 volumes. Authorities suspect similar schemes across eight districts totaling around ₸12 billion; the verdict is not yet final.

"The Shardara district education department head was sentenced to 10 years; the accountants to seven years each." - Judge Dauren Madaliev (egemen.kz)

"I disagree with the court’s decision. She took nothing. We will appeal." - Kudaibergen Makhanov, husband of a defendant (egemen.kz)

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Police Detain Journalist Mirbolat Myrzatayuly in Almaty as Counterterrorism Unit Leads Case

Published: 2025-09-03

Journalist Mirbolat Myrzatayuly was detained overnight in Almaty by officers from a counterterrorism unit, according to local media. Family members last heard from him around 16:30 on September 2 as he traveled from Talgar to Almaty; his car was later found at the eco-post parking area on the Talgar highway. The Almaty Police Department stated the detention is connected to a criminal case under Article 174 of Kazakhstan’s Criminal Code (incitement of social, national, or other discord) involving an individual named Bishuinov. The case will go to an investigative court within two days to consider pretrial measures.

"A criminal case has been initiated against [Mirbolat Myrzatayuly] in relation to Bishuinov under Article 174 of the Criminal Code" - Kairat Kassymbayev, Deputy Head of the Investigation Department, Almaty Police (malim.kz)

Authorities indicated a court will soon decide on custodial restrictions, signaling swift procedural steps after the detention.

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Police Uncover Scheme Selling Access to SIM Cards in Astana

Published: 2025-09-03

Astana police identified an illicit scheme involving the registration and resale of access to SIM cards. According to the report, a young man allegedly registered multiple SIM cards in his own name and then sold access to them via online platforms. Authorities typically link such practices to fraud networks, anonymized messaging, and evasion of digital identification rules, raising concerns over mobile-based banking security and verification processes. While the brief report does not detail arrests, charges, or the scale of the operation, it signals ongoing enforcement against identity misuse in telecom services. Businesses relying on SMS-based authentication and local e-KYC procedures may face heightened scrutiny and potential disruptions as investigations expand and operators tighten compliance. No official statements or named spokesperson quotes were provided in the source.

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Environment

Storms and First Frosts Split the Country as Temperatures Swing Early September

Published: 2025-09-03

Kazhydromet forecasts unstable conditions across Kazakhstan through 4–6 September, with a sharp contrast between cooler northern and eastern regions and hotter, dust-prone south and west. On 3 September, rain, thunderstorms and possible hail affect northern and central provinces, with fog overnight and early morning and isolated ground frost; daytime highs mostly 15–23°C, while Astana stays dry near 20–22°C. The south and southwest face strengthened winds and potential dust storms, with Shymkent and Turkistan near 32–34°C. West Kazakhstan sees heat with scattered thunderstorms; East Kazakhstan remains rainy and cool, with mountain zones dropping to 0°C at night. Looking ahead, forecasters warn of hail, squalls and strong winds in western and northwestern areas on 4–6 September, and a risk of ground frost to −2°C locally in parts of Karaganda and northern/eastern sectors overnight. Temperature ranges will fluctuate widely by region.

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ERG Commissions 150 MW Khromtau Wind Farm to Power Don GOK and Cut Emissions

Published: 2025-09-03

Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) launched the Khromtau wind power plant near the Don Mining and Processing Plant (Kazchrome), completing turbine installation across a 155-hectare site. Designed for over 500 million kWh annually, the 150 MW facility is expected to displace up to 440,000 tons of CO2 and save more than 300,000 tons of coal per year, supplying the growing demand of Don GOK. ERG invested over 74 billion tenge with financing support from the Development Bank of Kazakhstan; PowerChina was the technology partner. The first two units began generation in December 2024, delivering the first 1 million kWh by January 1, 2025. Regional authorities highlighted investment momentum and 25 new jobs tied to the project.

"We launched ERG’s first wind project in Aktobe region, a 150 MW plant into which we invested 74 billion tenge; we will keep expanding green energy projects in Kazakhstan." - Shukhrat Ibragimov, ERG CEO and Chair of the Board (egemen.kz)

"The Development Bank prioritizes financing renewables that support decarbonization and energy security; Khromtau WPP shows how development institutions and business can deliver large green projects." - Deputy Chairman, Development Bank of Kazakhstan (egemen.kz)

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Innovation

Central Bank Warns of Surge in Phone and Online Scams Using Imposter Apps

Published: 2025-09-03

The National Bank of Kazakhstan issued a public alert about escalating fraud schemes involving phone calls and internet scams where perpetrators pose as central bank representatives and direct victims to install malicious applications. Authorities say scammers spoof official numbers, pressure targets with “security checks,” and request remote access or transfers to “safe accounts.” The warning underscores a broader uptick in social engineering tactics targeting banking customers across the country, highlighting the need for verification of all unsolicited financial communications and avoidance of third-party apps not sourced from official stores or bank websites. The advisory is part of ongoing efforts to curb cyber-enabled financial crimes that exploit trust in public institutions and regulatory brands. No new technical measures were announced, but the emphasis is on public awareness and immediate reporting of suspicious contacts to law enforcement and banks.

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Astana Hub and Lerna Launch Online Prompt-Engineering Course for AI Adoption

Published: 2025-09-03

Astana Hub, in partnership with Lerna, has introduced “Fundamentals of Prompt Engineering,” a 15-academic-hour online course designed for automation, marketing, and product management professionals, as well as early-stage developers and AI-curious learners. The six-module program offers 24/7 access and flexible scheduling to integrate with work commitments. It follows last September’s free “AI Fundamentals: ChatGPT” course, which drew over 220,000 registrants and issued more than 120,000 certificates, underscoring strong demand for AI upskilling in Kazakhstan. The initiative forms part of the national AI Movement aimed at accelerating AI adoption and workforce readiness. While specific enrollment details are on the Astana Hub platform, the broader effort aligns with the government’s digital ambitions and signals expanding opportunities for AI-enabled roles across corporate functions and product teams.

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