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Kazakhstan — Daily

Kazakhstan Daily: Tenge slips as KASE lifts dollar, rate held at 16.5%, and FX reserves hit record

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Politics

Draft Rule Would Allow Automatic Divorce After Three Years on Interpol Notice

Published: 2025-08-29

The Foreign Ministry has posted a draft order on the Open NLA portal introducing a new ground for dissolving marriages: if one spouse has been under international criminal search for more than three years from the date a court sanctioned the search, the marriage could be terminated on that basis. Currently, divorces are granted for death (or declaration of death), a court finding of missing, or upon a party’s petition via court. The proposal would, for the first time, make prolonged international wanted status a standalone civil ground to end a marriage, streamlining the process for the spouse remaining in Kazakhstan or abroad. The ministry frames the change as improving law-enforcement effectiveness in divorce proceedings. The draft stems from Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov’s directives dated August 5 and 12, 2025. Public consultation is open on the portal.

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President Marks Constitution’s 30th Year, Defends 2022 Overhaul and Rule‑of‑Law Drive

Published: 2025-08-29

At a conference marking 30 years since the 1995 Constitution, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev framed recent reforms as irreversible, highlighting the 2022 referendum that revised roughly a third of the basic law, expanded checks and balances, and formalized a single seven‑year presidential term. He credited Nursultan Nazarbayev’s role in adopting the 1995 Constitution and stressed continuity while adapting to new political and technological realities, including AI and biotechnology. Tokayev emphasized judicial strengthening—creation of the Constitutional Court, wider citizen access, and administrative justice—saying citizens and businesses now win up to 60% of cases against state bodies. He also pointed to broader political openings (mixed electoral system, local executive elections, party pluralism) and social initiatives like “National Fund for Children.”

"No one can stop the process of building a ‘Just Kazakhstan’. A return to the past will not be allowed—above all by our youth." - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (inform.kz)

"Law and order must become ingrained in our national character." - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (aikyn.kz)

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Justice Ministry Rolls Out Mechanisms to Bolster Fair Trial Guarantees and Anti-Discrimination Protections

Published: 2025-08-29

The Justice Ministry is introducing new legal mechanisms to reinforce fair trial guarantees, combat discrimination, and support vulnerable groups, aligning with a broader “Law and Order” framework developed with the Interior Ministry. Officials say the measures will leverage modern technologies, updated legislation, public participation, and stricter accountability for offenders to ensure laws are not only fair but effectively enforced. These initiatives, which have garnered positive international feedback, are positioned as part of efforts to strengthen rule-of-law credibility and public trust.

"Guided by the ‘Law and Order’ concept, we aim to ensure not only the adoption of fair laws but also their quality enforcement, so parties in enforcement proceedings can rely on predictable, lawful conditions and alternative dispute resolution options." - Erlan Sarsembayev, Justice Minister (egemen.kz)

Authorities frame the package as a response to current challenges and a push to normalize legal order in daily life, laying groundwork for long-term institutional stability.

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Criminal Liability Introduced for Interfering with Aircraft Using Lasers or Drones

Published: 2025-08-29

Starting 14 September, interfering with aircraft operations—such as aiming laser beams that temporarily impair pilots’ vision or directing unmanned aerial vehicles toward aircraft—constitutes a criminal offense in Kazakhstan, according to state news agency reports. The measure targets rising aviation safety risks linked to consumer lasers and drones near airports and flight paths. While specifics on penalties were not provided, criminalization signals stricter enforcement and potential prosecutions for endangering flight safety. Operators of consumer and commercial drones should review flight restrictions, obtain necessary authorizations, and avoid controlled airspace without clearance. The move aligns with global trends to deter laser strikes and unsafe drone activity around airports, aiming to reduce operational disruptions and enhance pilot and passenger safety.

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Economy

Tenge Weakens Slightly as KASE Lifts Dollar; Exchange Offices Widen Spreads in Almaty and Astana

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s tenge eased versus major currencies on 29 August. The National Bank’s official rate set USD/KZT at 537.63, while KASE’s midday trading showed the dollar higher at 538.54. Retail exchange quotes diverged: in Almaty, dollars were bought at about 537.51 and sold at 539.38; in Astana, buy/sell levels were roughly 535.99/540.97. Euro traded near 625.48–629.56 in Almaty and 621.97–631.96 in Astana, with the ruble around 6.58–6.70 and 6.65–6.75 respectively. The official euro rate stood at 622.52, the ruble at 6.69, and the yuan at 75.07. The pattern suggests modest market pressure on the tenge with slightly wider retail spreads following the KASE uptick and the National Bank’s reference rate for the day.

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Policy Rate Held at 16.5% as Inflation Risks Persist; Hike Considered with Tighter Reserve Rules Taking Effect

Published: 2025-08-29

The National Bank of Kazakhstan kept the base rate at 16.5% with a ±1 pp corridor, citing updated projections and a reassessment of inflation risks. July annual inflation held at 11.8%; food and non-food prices rose while services inflation slowed for the first time this year. The Bank revised 2025 inflation to 11–12.5% and lifted 2025 GDP growth to 5.5–6.5%, keeping 2026 inflation at 9.5–11.5% and 2027 at 5.5–7.5%. External pressures remain from rising global food prices and elevated inflation in Russia. The MPC signaled it will evaluate raising the policy rate at upcoming meetings, with the next decision due on 10 October.

"We may raise the base rate going forward... our policy stance is moderately tight, not prohibitive, and the economy is running above potential, risking an inflationary spiral." - Timur Suleimenov, National Bank Governor (inform.kz, aikyn.kz, zakon.kz)

The Bank also finalized stricter minimum reserve requirements effective 2 September to drain excess liquidity and reinforce disinflation.

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FX Reserves Hit Record High as Sovereign Fund Posts $4.6B YTD Gain

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s National Bank reported record-high foreign exchange and gold reserves and a strong investment return for the National Fund through July 2025. Chairman Timur Suleimenov said the National Fund earned $4.6 billion year-to-date, delivering an 8% dollar-denominated return, with total assets now at $66.2 billion. He rejected speculation about losses, noting the fund has produced positive investment results for three consecutive years. For investors, the combination of peak reserves and solid fund performance signals improved external buffers and policy credibility, which may support tenge stability and sovereign risk perceptions, especially as the central bank navigates its policy-rate cycle and fiscal transfers from the fund.

"There are no losses on the National Fund’s investment income; on the contrary, for three years in a row we have had good investment returns." - Timur Suleimenov, National Bank Governor (egemen.kz)

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Regulators Tighten Consumer Lending with New Capital Buffer and 5‑Year Term Cap

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s National Bank approved a countercyclical capital buffer for retail loans and will impose stricter borrower assessments to cool consumer lending growth. Regulators, working with the Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market, are refining the debt burden ratio and debt-to-income tools, alongside tighter verification of borrower income to prevent inflated or duplicate income reporting. The National Bank also plans to ban unsecured consumer loans longer than five years, targeting rising delinquencies on extended terms. The measures complement a broader government–central bank effort to curb inflation through supply, logistics, pricing transparency, and monetary policy coordination.

"A decision has been made to introduce a countercyclical capital buffer for consumer loans." - Timur Suleimenov, National Bank Governor (inform.kz)

"Banks will be required to carefully verify citizens’ income so there are no double-counted or fictitious earnings." - Akylzhan Baymagambetov, Deputy Governor of the National Bank (inform.kz)

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Central Bank Flags Persistent Inflation as Demand Outpaces Supply, Keeps Tight Policy Focused on Price Stability

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s National Bank reports resilient domestic demand, led by rising car purchases, while supply capacity lags, reinforcing inflationary pressure. Governor Timur Suleimenov said GDP growth accelerated to 6.3% year-on-year, but production constraints mean stronger consumption is feeding prices rather than output. He underscored that the current restrictive stance is a tool, not an end-state, signaling policy will stay data-driven to anchor expectations and steer inflation back toward target.

"High interest rates and tight monetary policy are not the goal; they are instruments to curb inflation." - Timur Suleimenov, Governor of the National Bank (inform.kz)

The Bank sees inflationary pressure persisting in the near term and issued its forecast for 2024, indicating continued vigilance. For investors and corporates, the message points to elevated rates for longer until supply-side bottlenecks ease and disinflation gains traction.

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Food Price Inflation Concentrates in Meat and Cooking Oil as Annual Index Rises 12.6%

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s socially important food basket rose 12.6% year-on-year as of 26 August 2025, led by sharp increases in protein and fats. Lamb climbed 15.3%, beef 13.2%, poultry 12.1%, and sunflower oil 18.4%, indicating sustained pressure on household budgets from staple cooking inputs. By contrast, wheat flour (+4.5%) and standard bread (+6.3%) saw milder gains, reflecting the impact of stabilization funds and monitoring measures cited by analysts. Sugar (+10.4%) and rice (+12.3%) also added to costs. Seasonal effects eased vegetables, with potatoes, carrots, and cabbage cheaper in rural areas, yet headline growth was higher in major cities; Astana and Almaty outpaced the national average, while Turkistan and Kyzylorda posted lower increases. Overall, cost pressures were concentrated in meat, oils, and select grains, according to the National Statistics Bureau data.

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Early Loan Repayments to Become Penalty‑Free for Individuals from August 2025

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan will overhaul early loan repayment rules, with changes taking effect on 31 August 2025. Individuals will be able to repay consumer and mortgage loans early at any time without penalties; penalty clauses will apply only to legal entities. The reform covers both new and existing contracts, though any penalties paid before the effective date will not be recalculated. Borrowers can choose full prepayment or partial prepayment. For partial prepayment, lenders must allow either keeping monthly instalments unchanged while shortening the loan term, or maintaining the term while lowering monthly payments. Financial institutions may set minimum prepayment thresholds, application windows, and the date funds are debited. Officials recommend borrowers assess cash reserves and consider alternative uses of surplus funds, and clarify issues such as insurance refunds and procedures to lift mortgage encumbrances with their banks.

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Authorities Streamline Unfreezing of Fraud-Blocked Bank Accounts, Protect Social Payments

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan has eased procedures for restoring access to bank accounts frozen due to suspected fraud. According to the National Bank, funds can now be released based on notifications from investigative bodies or prosecutorial decrees, removing the need for a court order. The reform also shields incoming social payments—pensions, benefits, scholarships, and salaries—from being blocked even if an account holder is deemed suspicious. Review periods for dubious transactions are extended from three days to five to allow deeper checks. A centralized database of suspicious bank cards and e-wallets will be launched soon, supporting anti-fraud monitoring. Lawmakers have also introduced criminal liability for “droppers,” individuals who facilitate cash-outs for scammers. These steps aim to balance consumer protection with more robust enforcement and faster remediation for wrongly blocked funds.

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Mandatory Rental-Income Declarations Introduced with Sept. 15 Filing Deadline

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan is tightening oversight of rental and other personal income by requiring individuals who lease apartments, houses, garages, vehicles, or parking spaces to file an income declaration using Form 270. First-time filers must submit a “Initial” version, while recurring filers use the “Annual” option. Submissions are accepted online via the Taxpayer Cabinet, eGov, or e-Salyq Azamat, with penalties for late filing after September 15. The rule also applies to gains from securities and income from private practice, signaling a broader push to reduce the shadow economy through transparency of personal income streams. Social media reactions are mixed, framing the measure as either fair or burdensome, but officials stress universal compliance and enforcement across asset categories.

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Dollar Strengthens in Midday Trading on KASE

Published: 2025-08-29

The U.S. dollar rose during the daytime trading session on the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE) at 15:30 local time on August 29, 2025, according to Zakon.kz. While the brief market update did not disclose specific price levels or trading volumes, the move indicates renewed demand for the greenback in on-exchange transactions. For businesses and investors, an uptick in the exchange rate can signal short-term pressure on tenge-denominated costs and import pricing, with potential pass-through effects if the trend persists. Market participants typically track KASE’s daytime fix as a reference for interbank and retail rates later in the day. Absent official commentary on drivers, attention turns to regional currency dynamics, U.S. rate expectations, and domestic liquidity conditions to gauge whether this is a transient fluctuation or part of a broader shift.

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Central Bank Tightens Reserve Rules to Accelerate Banks’ Repayment of State Support

Published: 2025-08-29

The National Bank will raise minimum reserve requirements from early September 2025 and compel banks that received state support to add an extra reserve equal to 10% of that support, aiming to speed repayment of crisis-era aid. Authorities disclosed that since 2009–2010, KZT 1.2 trillion from the National Fund backed stabilization, including KZT 476.1 billion for the financial sector; funds to Halyk, Kazkom, and Alliance were fully repaid, while KZT 212.1 billion went to BTA. A further KZT 250 billion capitalized the Problem Loans Fund in 2014 and was conditionally on-lent to Kazkom. The regulator had considered a harsher uplift but softened after banks pledged quicker paybacks. Four banks—Bank RBK, Alatau City Bank, Eurasian Bank, and Nurbank—still owe support, originally due by 2032–2045, and face dividend restrictions until repayment advances.

"If banks did not agree to steps to repay state support, we would use reserve requirements to effectively ‘devalue’ that support." - Governor Timur Suleimenov (egemen.kz)

"Banks are actively cooperating with the state and will begin repaying support without breaching prudential norms or halting lending." - Governor Timur Suleimenov (egemen.kz)

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AI Wave Redirects Capital to Chips, Cloud, Energy, Healthcare, and Cybersecurity

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakh investor Aman Älimbayev outlines where artificial intelligence is reshaping investment flows across sectors. Data centers are straining power grids—he cites U.S. states like Virginia where facilities consume up to a quarter of electricity—boosting demand for solar, gas, and nuclear, and drawing capital to energy and infrastructure. Drug discovery timelines could halve with AI, accelerating treatments in oncology and neurodegenerative diseases and favoring pharma and biotech. Financial services are automating labor-intensive tasks: Goldman Sachs reportedly drafts most IPO materials with AI, while banks and insurers deploy tools to raise efficiency. Rising AI-enabled cyberattacks, with losses in the hundreds of billions of dollars, elevate cybersecurity as a core growth market estimated at $200 billion. Hardware (Nvidia, TSMC, ASML, Broadcom), cloud (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), energy, health, and security emerge as priority themes.

"AI is not just a technology; it is the heart of a new economy. Investors who move in time will not lose." - Aman Älimbayev, investor (egemen.kz)

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Aktau SEZ Expands to Airports and Coastal Zones as Mangystau Courts Chinese Investment

Published: 2025-08-29

Mangystau region is accelerating the expansion of the Aktau Sea Port Special Economic Zone following a July working visit to China by regional akim Nurdaulet Qylybai. At the Jining conference on cross‑border trade, the SEZ delegation promoted new subzones that now include 1,730 hectares at Aktau International Airport, 178 hectares of Aktau’s coastal area, 280.2 hectares in Zhanaozen’s industrial zone, and 284.6 hectares at the Sarzha sea terminal. Officials are advancing three additional subzones, including in Munaily district, focused on warehousing and logistics to support rising trade. SEZ chairman Mubarak Tulegenov said the area could grow from 4,407.5 to 26,885.4 hectares if plans are realized, enhancing multimodal connectivity on the Caspian.

"If such enterprises open in Mangystau, oil companies in our country would source products domestically rather than abroad." - Assylbek Dosanov, Deputy Chairman of the Aktau SEZ (egemen.kz)

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Central Bank Addresses Concerns Over Old 5,000 Tenge Notes Following Briefing

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s National Bank moved to clarify public concerns about the withdrawal of older-design 5,000 tenge banknotes. At a briefing on 29 August 2025, National Bank Chairman Timur Suleimenov responded to questions on whether retailers might refuse “old” 5,000 notes as they are phased out. While detailed procedures or timelines were not disclosed in the brief item, the clarification suggests the regulator is addressing potential confusion at points of sale and ensuring continuity of cash transactions. The National Bank typically maintains legal tender status during transition periods and provides exchange mechanisms via commercial banks, practices that help stabilize retail acceptance and prevent cash disruptions. Further guidance from the regulator will determine how long older notes remain valid and what obligations merchants have during the transition.

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Diplomacy

Direct Astana–Bratislava Route Discussed as Aviation Ties with Slovakia Deepen

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan is exploring a direct Astana–Bratislava flight following talks between Ambassador Zhanna Sagynova and Bratislava’s M. R. Štefánik Airport CEO and Board Chair Dušan Novota. The discussions covered passenger links and cargo opportunities, positioning Kazakhstan’s hubs as transit and alternate airports for eastbound European carriers, and proposing Kazakhstan as a convenient transit node for Slovak travelers to Central and Southeast Asia. Officials highlighted reforms under the “open skies” regime and fifth-freedom rights to attract foreign carriers, expand route networks, and intensify competition. The initiative aligns with plans to modernize aviation, develop six international hubs, and launch a national cargo carrier, potentially boosting trade, business connectivity, and tourism between the EU and Central Asia.

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UN Day on Nuclear Test Ban Highlights Kazakhstan’s Legacy and Push for CTBT Entry into Force

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan marked the International Day against Nuclear Tests by reaffirming its long-standing role in global disarmament and urging universal adoption of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). Astana underscored the 1991 closure of the Semipalatinsk test site—a pivotal move that galvanized support for the 1996 CTBT—and noted progress: 187 signatories, 178 ratifications, and a verification network 90% complete with 307 certified facilities worldwide, including five in Kazakhstan. The government also pointed to ongoing health and social impacts, with 1.1 million citizens recognized as affected by the former test site, keeping domestic support policies on the agenda. Planned CTBTO field inspection exercises (IFE26) will further strengthen verification capacity. States were invited to the UN high-level meeting on 3 September and pressed to maintain moratoria and complete ratifications, especially Annex 2 countries.

"We must all act together to bring the CTBT into force and ensure nuclear tests end permanently under a binding legal framework." - Murat Nurtleu and Robert Floyd (inform.kz)

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Embassy Issues Advisory for Citizens in Russia

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s Embassy in Russia released an advisory on August 29, 2025, addressing citizens currently in the country, according to Zakon.kz. While the announcement signals official outreach to nationals abroad, the article provides no details on the advisory’s content, purpose, or any specific actions required. In similar notices, embassies typically issue guidance on documentation, consular services, travel conditions, or legal compliance, especially when regulatory or mobility changes are anticipated. Without explicit instructions or quotes from embassy officials, it remains unclear whether this is routine communication or a response to new developments affecting cross-border movement or consular procedures. Readers should monitor the embassy’s official channels for the full text of the advisory and any follow-up measures, including potential guidance on registration, legal status, or emergency contacts.

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Published: 2025-08-29

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree on August 25, 2025 authorizing an agreement on mutual legal assistance in criminal cases between Kazakhstan and Singapore, according to Zakon.kz. The accord is expected to facilitate evidence sharing, witness cooperation, and asset tracing across jurisdictions, strengthening bilateral law enforcement ties and aligning with Kazakhstan’s broader push to modernize its legal cooperation frameworks. For international businesses and compliance teams, the agreement could streamline cross-border investigations and enhance predictability in handling financial crimes and cyber offenses involving both markets. Specific operational protocols and entry-into-force details were not disclosed in the initial announcement. No official comments or implementation timeline beyond the presidential decree were provided in the report.

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Infrastructure

IndiGo to Resume Direct Mumbai–Almaty Flights from 2 September with Four Weekly Services

Published: 2025-08-29

India’s IndiGo will restart direct international routes linking Mumbai with Almaty and Tashkent, adding four weekly flights on each corridor. The first Mumbai–Tashkent service begins 1 September 2025, followed by Mumbai–Almaty on 2 September. IndiGo previously served both cities but paused operations in April 2025 after Pakistan temporarily closed its airspace. The carrier says renewed links will support business and leisure travel while strengthening cultural and economic ties between India and Central Asia. Regional analysts note Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are targeting India’s fast-growing outbound market, projected to surpass 50 million travelers by 2026, leveraging short flight times and eased visas. Expanded connectivity is expected to facilitate trade, education exchanges, and investment as cooperation platforms such as the “India–Central Asia” forum gain traction.

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Karaganda Airport to Build Jet A-1 Fuel Hub, Targeting China–Europe Transit Growth

Published: 2025-08-29

Karaganda International Airport will add a high-tech Jet A-1 fuel reception, storage, and refueling complex in three phases through Q3 2027, positioning the site as a regional service center in Central Asia. Phase one (late 2025–early 2026) covers equipment design and installation; phase two (by end-2026) builds a 2,000 m³ tank and service complex; phase three doubles storage to 4,000 m³. Cargo capacity is projected to quadruple from 50,000 to 200,000 tons annually, aiming to make Karaganda a key China–Europe transit node. The project will meet European JIG, EI, and AFQP standards, with PetroChina as a strategic partner and a fuel supply agreement between Petro China Kazakhstan Ltd and Silk Aviation Airport Development.

"The project will significantly enhance the region’s transit potential and elevate strategic cooperation between the two countries to a new level." - Yermagambet Bolekpayev, Karaganda Region Akim (egemen.kz)

"Alongside strengthening economic ties, we prioritize environmental responsibility, ensuring the complex fully meets standards." - Yerlan Ospanov, Founder of Jet Fuel Service (egemen.kz)

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Refining Plan Targets 39 Mt Capacity by 2040 with Expanded Exports and Petrochemicals

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s Energy Ministry outlines a strategy to lift oil refining capacity from 18 Mt to 39 Mt per year, building on recent upgrades that brought total capacity to 17 Mt and raised refining depth to 89%. Current production meets 90–95% of domestic demand and complies with Euro-4 and above, with exports to China, India, and Central Asia set to rise to 30% of output by 2040. The plan includes building value chains in polymers and fertilizers and attracting up to $5 billion in investment. Operationally, Pavlodar’s plant installed 18 new-generation electrical dehydrators and hit a record 18,000 t/day load; Atyrau processed 3.4 Mt in seven months. Market concentration remains high: KMG and CNPC groups account for over 85% dominance, with CNPC leading in winter diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel shares, according to the competition authority.

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Society

Pilot Overhauls Social Support with Needs-Based Criteria and Hidden Income Checks

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s Labor and Social Protection Ministry is testing a redesign of social assistance that shifts from category-based benefits to needs-based criteria. The pilot, running across 11 services in Karaganda Region and Shymkent, evaluates household welfare by considering income, assets, dependency ratios, and detection of undeclared earnings, including rental income and informal work. Guaranteed national payments—pensions, benefits for large families, birth-related payments, disability and survivor benefits—remain intact and indexed annually, while local-budget programs are targeted more precisely. Officials say the trial aims to reduce fragmented and duplicative measures, curb ineffective payments, and improve transparency of delivery processes.

"All guaranteed payments from the republican budget will be preserved and indexed annually; state guarantees remain unchanged while the system’s targeting and fairness increase." - Olzhas Anafin, Vice Minister of Labor and Social Protection (dknews.kz)

"To test this approach, a pilot covering 11 public services is being implemented in Karaganda Region and Shymkent." - Olzhas Anafin, Vice Minister of Labor and Social Protection (dknews.kz)

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Government Targets Misuse in Social Spending, Cites Kyzylorda Savings for Reinvestment

Published: 2025-08-29

A government seminar reviewed misuse in social benefits and pledged to tighten targeting without reducing constitutionally guaranteed payments. Officials cited fraudulent claims in unemployment and maternity benefits, improper use of pension funds for dental services, and unwarranted discounts in school meals and targeted assistance. As of 1 August 2025, 429,000 people were registered unemployed, with 127 billion tenge allocated for benefits. Kyzylorda region’s audit-led optimization identified roughly 100 billion tenge in inefficient spending, reallocated to social infrastructure and low-income support, and is being considered as a model for other regions.

"All constitutionally guaranteed social payments will be paid in full and without cuts. Optimization is aimed solely at eliminating abuses and improving targeting, with savings directed to those truly in need." - Deputy Prime Minister Ermek Kosherbayev (egemen.kz)

"Our main goal is to make the social protection system fair and effective." - Labor and Social Protection Minister Svetlana Zhakypova (egemen.kz)

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Almaty Reports Sharp Rise in Child-Involved Road Accidents

Published: 2025-08-29

Almaty has recorded more than 4,000 traffic accidents since the start of the year, with incidents involving children reportedly up by 60%, according to local media. While the brief report highlights a significant surge, it provides no breakdown by cause, location, or time of day, and does not specify injury severity or fatalities. The trend underscores ongoing urban mobility and road safety challenges in Kazakhstan’s largest city, where rapid growth and dense traffic complicate enforcement and infrastructure planning. For businesses and schools, the figures suggest heightened risk around commuting corridors and school zones, potentially prompting calls for targeted enforcement, speed calming near educational institutions, and public-awareness campaigns. Authorities typically respond to such spikes with periodic crackdowns and pedestrian safety initiatives, but detailed measures were not disclosed in the report.

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Domestic Violence Cases Shift to Criminal Prosecution with Thousands of Protective Orders Issued

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan has tightened its legal response to domestic violence, reclassifying battery and intentional minor bodily harm as criminal offenses. In the first seven months of the year, authorities registered over 8,000 criminal cases tied to domestic violence, reflecting an enforcement shift rather than a full picture of prevalence. Courts issued more than 56,000 protective orders, and over 19,000 offenders received administrative detention, signaling broader use of preventive measures. Crisis centers provided assistance to thousands of women and children. For employers and service providers, the heightened criminalization may affect HR policies, compliance, and support programs. Legal practitioners should note expanded grounds for prosecution and court-ordered protections, while social services and NGOs may see increased referrals and demand for shelter and counseling.

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Police Warn Against Fake International Driving Permits as National Licenses Recognized in 180+ Countries

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry clarified that international driving permits (IDPs) are not issued domestically and warned against offers from private companies or travel agencies. Authorities stressed that issuing any driving licenses is the exclusive competence of internal affairs bodies, yet confirmed that Kazakhstan’s national driver’s license is valid in more than 180 countries party to the 1968 Vienna Convention. The ministry said IDPs, where used abroad, are merely official translations and are not a substitute for a national license. It listed situations where an IDP may be requested overseas—car rental, border crossings by private vehicle, roadside checks, and insurance—while reiterating no exams or training are required for such documents. No official complaints about fraudulent IDPs have been recorded, but citizens are urged to report suspicious offers.

"At present, international driving permits are not issued in our country. Kazakhstan’s national driver’s license is valid in over 180 countries that have signed the 1968 Vienna Convention." - Interior Ministry press service (egemen.kz)

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Environment

Heat Peaks Then Slides as Storm Alerts Expand for Aug. 29–31

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazhydromet warns of volatile conditions through the weekend: extreme heat persists on Aug. 29 with 35–41°C in parts of Turkistan, Zhambyl, and Almaty regions, alongside widespread high to extreme wildfire risk and episodes of dust storms in Mangystau and Kyzylorda (aikyn.kz, dknews.kz). Thunderstorms, hail, and gusts up to 15–20 m/s are forecast for northern and eastern regions, including Astana, Pavlodar, Akmola, and North Kazakhstan (dknews.kz, informburo.kz). City forecasts for Aug. 29 show heat holding in Almaty (33–35°C) and Shymkent (36–38°C), while Astana cools to 24–26°C with rain and thunder (informburo.kz). A sharp temperature drop follows as a west anticyclone spreads: by Aug. 28–31, northern and eastern areas fall to daytime 12–18°C, with central and southern regions easing to 23–28°C; the west trends hotter to 32–37°C (egemen.kz, aikyn.kz, dknews.kz). Outlooks for Aug. 30 indicate continued 40°C pockets in the south and west, with convective storms and possible hail elsewhere, and persistent fire danger (zakon.kz, malim.kz).

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Beef Output Rises 1.8% in First Seven Months as Herd Expands and Credit Eases

Published: 2025-08-29

Concerns over domestic beef shortages contrast with official data showing steady growth in livestock and output. From January–July 2025, total meat production reached 608.8 thousand tons (+1.8%), including 205.7 thousand tons of beef, according to the Agriculture Ministry citing national statistics. The cattle herd stood at 8.7 million by end-July, with cows at 4.5 million (+3.1%) and calves up 17.9% to 2.7 million—signals that support further output gains. Exports for January–June rose 2.4 times to 16.1 thousand tons, mainly to Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, China and the UAE. Feedlot utilization is 35–40%; a new subsidized credit line launched on August 1 allocates 50 billion tenge in 12‑month loans at 5% to lift capacity to 60%. The ministry frames current prices as profitable for producers and says policy aims to increase, not restrict, domestic supply.

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Almaty to Host First Waste-to-Energy Plant Under China-Backed Investment Deal

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Yerlan Nysanbayev signed an investment agreement with Chinese-backed Junxin Environmental Protection (Almaty) LLP to build the country’s first waste-to-energy plant in Almaty, the ministry announced. The project aims to generate electricity from municipal waste, signaling a shift from landfill reliance toward energy recovery in urban waste management. While financial terms, capacity, and timeline were not disclosed, the initiative aligns with Kazakhstan’s broader environmental modernization and could reduce landfill volumes, cut methane emissions, and diversify urban power supply. The partnership underscores growing Sino-Kazakh cooperation in green infrastructure and may set a template for similar facilities in other major cities if performance targets are met and regulatory frameworks support feed-in tariffs and grid integration.

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ERG Completes Khromtau Wind Farm, Targeting 500 GWh Annual Output and Emissions Cuts

Published: 2025-08-29

Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) has completed the Khromtau wind power plant near the Dön mining and processing complex in Aktobe region, projecting over 500 million kWh in annual generation. The facility is expected to avoid up to 440,000 tons of CO2 emissions each year and save more than 300,000 tons of coal. Two units began producing power in December 2024, delivering the first 1 million kWh on January 1, 2025; all turbines are now installed. Investment exceeded 74 billion tenge, with financing support from the Development Bank of Kazakhstan. Regional officials highlighted rising capital investment and 25 new jobs at the site. ERG situates the project within its broader decarbonization strategy, presented at COP28, alongside gas conversion at Qashar and efficiency upgrades in aluminum and ferroalloy operations.

"Today we witness ERG’s first wind energy project in Aktobe region, our contribution to increasing renewables in Kazakhstan." - Shukhrat Ibragimov, ERG CEO and Board Chair (egemen.kz)

"We prioritize financing renewable energy projects to support decarbonization and energy security." - Marat Yelebayev, Chairman, Development Bank of Kazakhstan (egemen.kz)

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Innovation

Astana Unveils Presight AI-Powered Smart City Platform to Centralize Security and Urban Management

Published: 2025-08-29

Astana is deploying a Smart City platform with UAE-based Presight AI to integrate more than 15 systems—spanning video surveillance, transport, utilities, and public safety—into a 24/7 city operations center. Over 15,000 cameras are slated by year-end, running 35+ AI algorithms for behavior recognition, traffic monitoring, and traffic rule enforcement. Authorities project faster incident response (30–50%), enhanced road safety with crash-prevention tools, and expanded protection for schools and courtyards, including peripheral districts—changes expected to lift real estate values in outlying neighborhoods. According to a city survey, 91% support centralized video systems and 85% prioritize child safety.

"The goal is not just installing cameras, but building a unified digital architecture for city management." - Berik Akhmetov, head of Astana’s Digitalization Department (egemen.kz)

Presight AI says roughly 60% of implementation work will go to local IT firms, creating jobs and new competencies.

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Published: 2025-08-29

Starlink’s satellite internet, delivering up to 200 Mbps with low latency, is now officially available in Kazakhstan from 2024, addressing connectivity gaps in remote and border areas where fiber or cable is impractical or uneconomic. The service is part of SpaceX’s rapidly scaling constellation—over 6,000 satellites currently in orbit—with further launches and next‑generation hardware planned to improve performance and reduce equipment costs. Adoption extends beyond households to aviation, maritime, military, and emergency services, proving especially valuable when terrestrial networks fail during natural disasters. Broader impact is expected on digital inclusion and participation in the global digital economy, as Starlink adds millions of users worldwide and positions itself as a primary alternative for underserved regions.

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Central Bank to Pilot 100 Budget Projects Using Digital Tenge

Published: 2025-08-29

Kazakhstan’s central bank will implement 100 government-funded projects using the digital tenge, signaling a scaled pilot of the central bank digital currency (CBDC) in public finance. National Bank Chairman Timur Suleimenov announced the plan, positioning the digital tenge as an operational tool for budget execution and potentially improving transparency, traceability, and disbursement efficiency. The move suggests the state is shifting from limited trials toward real-world applications across multiple public projects, which could pave the way for broader adoption in procurement, social payments, and interagency settlements. Details on timelines, sectors, and transaction frameworks were not disclosed in the brief announcement, but the scope indicates a significant expansion of CBDC use within the fiscal system.

"One hundred budget projects will be implemented using the digital tenge." - Timur Suleimenov, Chairman of the National Bank (inform.kz)

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Astana Launches Accelerator to Pilot Urban Tech Solutions in 2025

Published: 2025-08-29

Astana Hub, the city administration, and Astana Innovations opened applications for the Astana Innovations Accelerator 2025, targeting technology deployments that address municipal challenges in healthcare, education, safety, infrastructure, transport, business, and the environment. Up to 15 teams will be selected—10 with ready products and 5 building from scratch under city technical briefs—to run pilots, adapt solutions to real urban conditions, and receive mentorship, workshops, and sector expert support. Successful pilots can secure 5 million tenge via a SAFE agreement and gain preferred rollout conditions in the capital, with pathways to other cities and markets. International startups may apply but must register a legal entity in Kazakhstan and derive revenue from priority activities. The program runs two months and concludes with a Demo Day before officials, business leaders, and investors.

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Paper Certificates Face Phase-Out as Labor Ministry Signals Full Digital Shift

Published: 2025-08-29

"Most public services are already provided online or electronically, yet some paper certificates have not been fully phased out" - Olzhas Anafin, Vice Minister of Labor and Social Protection (inform.kz)

Kazakhstan’s Labor and Social Protection Vice Minister Olzhas Anafin said paper-based certificates remain in limited use even as government services largely move online. His comments indicate an ongoing transition toward end-to-end digital verification across state services. While no firm cutoff date was announced, the ministry’s stance suggests continued efforts to eliminate residual paper requirements, aligning with broader e-government reforms that centralize data sharing and reduce in-person documentation. For businesses and individuals, expanded digital integration would streamline compliance and service access, reducing administrative burdens and reliance on physical documents as backend systems mature and inter-agency interoperability improves.

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Social Services Move Online as 45 of 49 Offerings Digitized

Published: 2025-08-29

By August 1, authorities delivered 4.2 million social and state services, with 2.8 million provided online and 1.2 million offered proactively, according to the vice minister. The shift places the majority of services onto digital channels, signaling accelerated e-government adoption and reduced paperwork for beneficiaries. While detailed breakdowns were not provided, the figures imply that nearly all major social services now have electronic pathways, cutting in-person queues and improving access in remote regions. For businesses and residents, the expansion of proactive services—triggered automatically by life events—could streamline interactions with state agencies, lower compliance time, and enhance data-driven service delivery. Further monitoring will be needed to assess user experience, digital inclusion, and system resilience as volumes grow.

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