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Kazakhstan — Daily

Kazakhstan Daily: Tenge firms, digital border queue pilots, and major airport upgrades roll out

,   and  Lexica
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Politics

Pension Payment Rules and Contribution Deductions Revised by Cabinet Effective September 1

Published: 2025-08-22

"By government decree of August 18, 2025, procedures for pension payments and withholding of contributions to the Unified Accumulative Pension Fund are updated" - Government resolution summary (inform.kz)

The government amended several regulations governing pension payments and the mechanism for withholding contributions to the Unified Accumulative Pension Fund (UAPF), with changes taking effect September 1. The updates, adopted by Cabinet resolution on August 18, 2025, refine the order of pension disbursements and clarify how mandatory pension contributions are deducted and transferred to the UAPF. While detailed parameters were not disclosed in the brief announcements, the revisions signal an administrative tightening of payment sequences and remittance procedures across employers and payment agents. Companies should review payroll compliance and update HR/payroll systems to align with the new withholding rules, and retirees and near‑retirees should expect adjustments in payment scheduling and processing. Further implementing guidance is likely from relevant ministries and the UAPF before the effective date.

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Presidential Decree Expands Mandate of Competition Agency

Published: 2025-08-22

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree on 18 August 2025 amending the Regulation on the Agency for Protection and Development of Competition, expanding the authority of Kazakhstan’s antitrust regulator, according to Zakon.kz. While the decree’s text was not detailed in the report, the move signals a policy push to strengthen market oversight and enforcement capacity. For investors and businesses, broader powers could mean tighter scrutiny of monopolistic practices, potential revisions in merger control, and more active pricing and market conduct investigations. Strengthening the agency aligns with ongoing structural reforms aimed at diversifying the economy and improving the business climate by curbing dominant market abuses and promoting fair competition. Further implementing bylaws and guidance will clarify how new competencies affect compliance obligations across sectors.

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Harsher Penalties Introduced for Abusive Debt Collectors Starting September 2025

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan has enacted legal amendments that criminalize abusive practices by debt collectors starting 16 September 2025. Previously handled administratively, misconduct will now carry prison terms: up to four years for abuse of authority, and up to five years for threats, violence, forgery, or extortion. The shift follows rising complaints of pressure tactics, including intimidation, psychological coercion, targeting relatives, document falsification, and late-night calls. Existing rules under the “On Collection Activities” law remain in force: contact limited to three calls per week between 08:00 and 21:00, in-person meetings only until 20:00 and with debtor consent. Prohibitions include impersonating police or court officers, publishing debt information, using degrading language, or contacting relatives or colleagues without permission. Authorities emphasize that victims should document interactions and file complaints, as violations can now trigger criminal cases.

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Tighter Oversight Introduced for Officials’ Foreign Business Travel

Published: 2025-08-22

Authorities have revised rules governing business trips abroad for civil servants and diplomatic staff, tightening oversight of travel to foreign institutions. The measure aims to standardize approvals and strengthen accountability for overseas missions, reflecting a broader push to curb misuse of public resources and ensure alignment with state priorities. While the announcement signals stricter control, specific procedural changes, exemptions, and implementation timelines were not detailed in the initial notice. For foreign missions and international partners, the updated framework may affect scheduling, advance planning, and coordination with Kazakh government counterparts, particularly for conferences, training, and negotiations. Further guidance is expected from relevant ministries to clarify approval thresholds, reporting requirements, and categories of permissible travel. No official statements or personal comments were provided in the source article.

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Economy

Tenge Firms as KASE Dollar Rate Slips; Exchange Bureaus Narrow Spreads in Major Cities

Published: 2025-08-22

The tenge strengthened slightly on 22 August, with Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE) data showing the average dollar rate down 0.39 tenge to 537.34. The National Bank’s official rate stands at 537.75. Exchange bureaus in Almaty were buying dollars around 537.78 and selling at 539.68, while in Astana buy-sell quotes were wider at 534.54–541.52, indicating more variability in the capital. Euro trades clustered near 623–627 and the ruble around 6.63–6.75. Compared with 21 August, the KASE dollar rate has eased from 537.75, signaling a modest drift lower. The move comes with no fresh policy signals from the National Bank reported in these articles; market pricing suggests calmer FX conditions and slightly tighter retail spreads in Almaty versus Astana. For corporates and importers, the softer dollar rate offers marginal cost relief; exporters may see slightly reduced tenge receipts.

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Antimonopoly Probe Targets Kazakhtelecom Over Suspected Price Hikes in Fixed Internet, Mobile Services

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s Agency for Protection and Development of Competition has launched an antimonopoly investigation into Kazakhtelecom JSC after analysis indicated signs of “monopolistically high pricing” in fixed broadband. The agency found that in 2024 the operator raised tariffs for 100, 200, and 500 Mbps plans by about 20%. Regulators are also reviewing potential unjustified price increases in the mobile market and may open a separate case against a mobile operator. The moves come as the government tightens scrutiny of dominant utilities and digital infrastructure providers. Potential outcomes include ordered tariff rollbacks, fines, and structural remedies if abuse of dominance is confirmed. Kazakhtelecom is the country’s largest telecom provider and a price-setter in many regions, so any enforcement action could ripple across market pricing and service investment plans. No company response was reported in the cited articles.

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Imported Goods Prices Climb 12% as Food and Household Items Lead Gains

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s National Statistics Bureau reports a 12% year-on-year increase in prices for imported goods in the domestic market, with sharp rises in products sourced from CIS countries. Food categories show the steepest gains: sunflower oil up 1.5 times, flour-based confectionery up 40%, vegetables 33%, sausages 31%, and dairy products at similar levels. Non-food essentials also rose, with medicines up 15% and cleaning products up 27%. The data signal sustained import-driven inflation pressures, likely reflecting currency pass-through, supply chain costs, and regional pricing dynamics. Businesses dependent on imported inputs may face margin squeezes or pass costs to consumers, while households encounter broader cost-of-living increases. Monitoring import substitution efforts, logistics adjustments, and potential policy responses will be key to anticipating further price movements.

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Government Sets 2024–2028 Plan to Scale Rare and Critical Metals, Prioritizing Exploration and Processing

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan is moving to systematize rare and rare earth metals production through a 2024–2028 plan focused on upgrading plants, expanding geological exploration, introducing advanced processing technologies, and strengthening R&D. The sector currently makes up 2.4% of metallurgy and has received KZT 67 billion in state funding since 2018. Exploration is widening: 25 sites covering 100,000 sq km are being mapped at 1:50,000 scale; 38 promising hard‑rock sites were identified in 2024. Geological and geophysical surveys are expected to span 2.038 million sq km in 2025 and 2.2 million in 2026. Kazakhstan already produces beryllium, tantalum, niobium, scandium, titanium, rhenium, and osmium, and extracts bismuth, antimony, selenium, and tellurium, with gallium and indium technologies in place. Priorities include battery materials, heat‑resistant alloys, semiconductors, and magnet recycling, with a regional research center planned at the National Technology Foresight Center.

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Pavlodar Raises Electricity Release Tariff 12.2% After Regulator Cuts Utility’s Request

Published: 2025-08-22

Pavlodar’s electricity release tariff rose from KZT 29.04 to 32.58 per kWh (12.2%), after the regional regulator reduced a utility proposal for a 40% hike. Officials cited a 29% rise in company costs, including wholesale market prices climbing from KZT 24 to 32 per kWh, average wages increasing from KZT 360,000 to 496,000, and higher network expenses. Fees to use third‑party grids also surged—by 48% at Kazakhstan Temir Zholy and 112% at KazSuShar—raising delivered power costs. Capacity market prices were fixed at KZT 1.4 million per MW, up from KZT 1.196 million. The regulator said it cut Pavlodarenergo’s claimed additional costs and set a tariff aimed at limiting consumer burden.

"We recalculated and, considering the factors, reduced the increase to 12.2%. The tariff was set at a level that will not overly burden consumers, within the Natural Monopolies law." - Nurlan Nurmuratov, head of Pavlodar Regional Natural Monopolies Regulator (egemen.kz)

The increase coincides with hydraulic tests that leave many households without hot water, likely boosting electricity use. Impact on bills will be evident in September receipts. The last hike was in August 2024.

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Tax Changes Forecast Higher Revenues from Crypto Mining and Exchanges in 2026

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee expects budget inflows from crypto mining and cryptocurrency exchanges to rise starting in 2026, following planned legislative amendments. While details of the reforms were not disclosed, the projections signal continued formalization of the digital asset sector and a tighter fiscal framework for miners and trading platforms. For market participants, the anticipated changes could include revised fee structures, taxation rules, or licensing requirements designed to capture a larger share of sector value. The outlook suggests policymakers see digital assets as a growing revenue source within the non-extractive economy. Investors and operators should monitor draft legislation and regulatory guidance through 2025 to assess capital planning, compliance costs, and potential adjustments to operational models in anticipation of implementation in 2026.

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Retail Terms and Subsidized Rivals Drive Dairy Imports Higher, Squeezing Local Producers

Published: 2025-08-22

An interview with industry representative Sağıngazy Daniyaruly highlights mounting pressure on Kazakhstan’s dairy sector from Russian and Belarusian imports, amplified by retail chain practices and uneven state support within the Eurasian Economic Union. Large and small foreign suppliers can undercut prices due to scale and direct subsidies, including full reimbursement of logistics to points of sale in Russia, while Kazakh producers face higher retail entry costs and limited domestic support. Belarusian dairy imports reportedly rose 51% year-on-year, with cheese and curd up 30%. Daniyaruly alleges hidden “retro-bonuses” exceeding 7% and cites the rapid expansion of “Belorusskiye produkty No.1” outlets. He urges targeted subsidies to offset shelf fees and marketing, low-interest long-term financing, and broader investment programs to raise technology and capacity.

"Our market is clearly under import pressure... Retailers use this to gain large margins, while domestic producers lack comparable state support." - Sağıngazy Daniyaruly (egemen.kz)

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Tax Authorities Outline Oversight of Digital Mining Revenues

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee reported 17 billion tenge in budget inflows over the past three years tied to the digital assets sector, with 14 billion tenge from payments specific to digital mining. The figures, disclosed by Talgat Adilov, head of the committee’s digital assets administration department, underscore the growing formalization of crypto-mining oversight and its fiscal impact. While detailed mechanisms were not fully elaborated in the brief, the emphasis on “payments for digital mining” indicates a defined levy framework and compliance monitoring for miners operating in the country. For stakeholders, the data points to sustained enforcement and revenue collection from mining activities, and signals continued scrutiny of the sector by tax authorities as they refine administrative tools and reporting requirements to capture economic activity in digital assets.

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Rules Updated for Saryarqa Special Economic Zone, Setting Stage for Investment Growth by 2036

Published: 2025-08-22

The government approved amendments to the regulation governing the Saryarqa Special Economic Zone (SEZ) on 18 August 2025, signaling a policy push to expand investment through 2036, according to Zakon.kz. While the decree’s text was not detailed, changes to SEZ rules typically cover land use, tax incentives, and resident eligibility—mechanisms that can unlock new projects and long-term capital. Saryarqa SEZ, centered in Karaganda region, targets industrial development and logistics, positioning it to benefit from supply-chain shifts and regional connectivity. The updated framework may streamline residency procedures and align incentives with national industrial priorities, potentially attracting manufacturers and technology firms. Specific investment targets, sectors, and timelines were not disclosed in the report, and no official provided on-record comments. Further clarity will depend on the published decree and subsequent implementation guidelines.

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Diplomacy

Astana and Bishkek Set 2030 Trade Target, Sign Comprehensive Cooperation Plan During Presidential Visit

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev paid a state visit to Bishkek, holding talks with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and co-chairing the 7th High Intergovernmental Council. The two sides adopted a Joint Statement, approved the Council’s decisions, and exchanged intergovernmental and interagency documents, including a roadmap to raise bilateral trade to $3 billion by 2030. Priorities include trade facilitation, transport and transit links (notably the “Almaty–Issyk-Kul” road), coordinated water-energy management, agro-industrial cooperation, and expanded digital government collaboration. New projects feature an industrial trade-logistics complex at the border and a wholesale distribution center in Almaty region, while L.N. Gumilyov ENU opened a branch at Osh State University and state media signed a cooperation memorandum.

"We reached an understanding to resolve any issue in a spirit of trust and alliance; our goal is to lift trade to $3 billion and launch the border industrial logistics complex next year." - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (egemen.kz)

"We emphasized projects like the industrial logistics complex on the border and the ‘Almaty–Issyk-Kul’ highway, and discussed expanding trade and improving conditions for business." - President Sadyr Japarov (egemen.kz)

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State Honors Highlight Deepening Kazakhstan–Kyrgyz Cooperation

Published: 2025-08-22

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded Kyrgyz officials and public figures with the Order of Dostyk (Friendship), underscoring closer bilateral ties and security coordination. Deputy Chair of the Cabinet of Ministers and head of Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security Kamchybek Tashiev received the Order of Dostyk, First Class. Member of the Jogorku Kenesh Dastanbek Zhumabekov, presidential adviser Arslan Koychiev, and public figure Askar Salymbekov were awarded the Second Class. The ceremony signals sustained momentum in political, economic, and cultural cooperation, including interparliamentary engagement and regional security. Tokayev framed the honors as a marker of enduring neighborhood ties and practical collaboration, particularly in security.

"This is not merely an awards ceremony. It is a sign of Kazakhstan’s deep gratitude and respect for the Kyrgyz people... Today will be written in gold letters in the chronicle of Kazakh–Kyrgyz relations as a bright example of eternal brotherhood and good-neighborliness." - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (egemen.kz)

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Energy Ministry Addresses Risks to Oil Exports After ‘Druzhba’ Pipeline Attack

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s Energy Ministry issued an official clarification on potential impacts to Kazakh crude shipments following an attack on the Druzhba oil pipeline, a key route carrying Russian crude to Europe. While Druzhba is not Kazakhstan’s primary export corridor—Kazakh oil largely moves via the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) to the Black Sea—some Kazakh volumes transit Russia through interconnected systems. The ministry’s statement signals attention to operational continuity and possible rerouting if required, as market participants assess exposure to Russian transit infrastructure. The clarification aims to reassure buyers and traders about supply stability and the government’s readiness to manage any disruptions. No detailed operational changes, flow reductions, or timelines were disclosed in the initial note. The situation underscores Kazakhstan’s dependence on diversified export routes and the importance of contingency planning for European-bound deliveries.

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Joint Statement Adopted by Leaders Following Kazakhstan–Kyrgyzstan Talks

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan concluded high-level talks in Bishkek with the adoption of a Joint Statement, signaling alignment on bilateral priorities. While details were not disclosed in the initial readout, such statements typically outline commitments on trade, transport links, border management, and regional security cooperation within Central Asia’s integration frameworks. The announcement, issued by Akorda, indicates sustained diplomatic momentum and may precede sectoral agreements or commissions to implement next steps. For businesses and observers, the document’s content—once published—will clarify near-term opportunities in logistics corridors, customs facilitation, and cross-border services, as well as coordination on water-energy issues and multilateral forums. No direct quotes or specific provisions were provided in the source announcement.

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Tokayev Receives Ceremonial Welcome at Kyrgyz Presidential Residence Ahead of Talks

Published: 2025-08-22

" " - (egemen.kz)

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was formally welcomed at Kyrgyzstan’s “Yntymak Ordo” residence, where he and President Sadyr Japarov observed national anthems, reviewed an honor guard, and introduced their official delegations before moving to a negotiation hall. The protocol-heavy reception underscores a state-level visit and signals intent to deepen bilateral engagement. While the report did not detail specific agenda items, the sequence suggests high-level talks on cooperation spanning trade, transport, and regional security—priority areas for both countries within the Eurasian Economic Union and Central Asia’s water-energy nexus. The public ceremony also highlights continuity in Astana–Bishkek ties, with outcomes likely to emerge from the subsequent closed-door discussions.

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Draft Agreement Advances Non‑Repayable 100 Million Yuan Grant from China

Published: 2025-08-22

The Ministry of Digital Development has prepared a government resolution to approve an agreement on technical and economic cooperation between the governments of Kazakhstan and China, enabling a non-repayable grant of 100 million yuan. The draft indicates the funding will come as a grant rather than a loan, signaling continued Chinese support for digital and infrastructure initiatives. While sectoral allocation and timelines are not disclosed, such agreements typically back equipment procurement, IT systems, or connectivity projects, aligning with Kazakhstan’s ongoing digitalization agenda and cross-border tech partnerships. The move suggests potential tenders for Chinese-supplied technology and could streamline bilateral project implementation once approved. No official statements or implementation details were provided in the report, and the resolution remains at the draft stage pending government adoption.

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EU Sets October 12, 2025 Launch for Entry/Exit System Tracking Non‑EU Travelers

Published: 2025-08-22

The European Commission has scheduled the Entry/Exit System (EES) to go live on 12 October 2025, introducing automated registration of non‑EU nationals’ entries and exits at external borders. The EES will replace passport stamping with biometric and alphanumeric data capture, affecting travelers who require short‑stay visas or are visa‑exempt. For Kazakhstan citizens traveling to the Schengen Area, this signals tighter, faster border checks and digital records of stays—key for compliance with 90/180‑day rules. The rollout precedes the EU’s ETIAS travel authorization, expected after EES stabilizes, and may require airports and land crossings to upgrade equipment and procedures. Businesses should anticipate transitional adjustments at EU border points and potential peak‑period congestion during initial deployment. No official statements were quoted in the source report.

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Infrastructure

Major Airport Upgrades Set to Create Multimodal Hubs in Astana, Almaty, Shymkent and Aktobe

Published: 2025-08-22

Astana, Almaty, Shymkent and Aktobe airports are being expanded into multimodal logistics and passenger hubs, aligning aviation with industrial and tourism policy. In Astana, a $1.1 billion modernization starting 2025 adds a second runway and third passenger and cargo terminals, plus an Aerotropolis with logistics, offices, hotels and retail. Almaty has begun phase one of a 2050 master plan to rebuild the domestic terminal, add taxiways, renew runway and fuel systems, and build cargo aprons and an MRO hangar; a hotel and multi-level parking are planned, supporting over 1,800 construction jobs and 550 permanent roles. Shymkent opened a 40,000 sq m terminal on Dec. 25, 2024, boosting capacity from 800,000 to 6 million passengers, with a 3.5 km runway and a link to the Ontustik SEZ to follow. Aktobe is building a 15,000 sq m logistics hub, doubling fuel storage, enabling JET-A1 supply, and studying a second runway. The government also moved to expand SEZ boundaries at major airports to attract investment. Parallel projects will add new airports in Zaysan, Katonkaragai and Kenderli, with groundwork underway, and restore Arkalyk airport after a decades-long closure.

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Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan is advancing a multi‑modal infrastructure push centered on four rail projects exceeding 1,300 km: Dostyk–Mointy, the Almaty orbital line, Darbaza–Maktaaral, and Bakty–Ayagoz. The Almaty bypass and the second track on Dostyk–Mointy are slated to finish this year, multiplying freight throughput up to fivefold and strengthening the China–Europe land bridge via the Trans‑Caspian corridor. The government has launched the Trans‑Kazakhstan Rail Corridor, adding the 366‑km Mointy–Kyzylzhar segment and modernizing 1,600 km, with plans to build or repair 16,000 km over five years. Authorities report 125 stations under extensive upgrades and 175 new passenger cars entering service, including 51 from Stadler. Port capacity is expanding at Aktau and Kuryk, with a new container terminal in Aktau and Kazakhstan’s first multimodal terminal opened in Poti, Georgia.

"Station facades, engineering networks, halls and platforms are being renewed, with safety and accessibility for people with limited mobility" - Maksat Kaliakparov, Vice Minister of Transport (egemen.kz)

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Astana Expands Water Infrastructure with New Mainline and SFS-4 to Ensure Supply to 2035

Published: 2025-08-22

Astana is advancing a multi-phase plan to secure potable water through 2035, adding a new main from the K. Satbayev canal and building the fourth pumping and filtration station (SFS-4). The intake is designed for 342,000 m³/day, with SFS-4 capacity at 210,000 m³/day. The city is also constructing a technical water pipeline at the Telman pumping station to reach its 160,000 m³/day design output and preparing a pipeline from the Nura underground water field. A looped waterline from Hussein bin Talal Street to Syghanaq Street is under design, targeting completion in December 2025 to bolster supply west of Turan Avenue. The measures follow 2023 shortages and complement recent capacity gains from SFS-3.

"There is currently no capacity deficit, and we also have reserves for the coming years." - Mayor Zhenis Kassymbek (egemen.kz)

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Freight Growth and Road Upgrades Advance Under Transport Infrastructure Push

Published: 2025-08-22

The government reports significant gains in transport infrastructure under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s directives, highlighting improved road conditions and rapid growth on international corridors. Authorities say the condition of national highways has reached 93% “good” or “satisfactory,” reflecting sustained investment in road rehabilitation. Freight volumes on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor) have increased sixfold over the past five years, underscoring the corridor’s rising role as an alternative east–west link bypassing Russia. Officials framed the progress as part of a broader logistics strategy to expand capacity and reliability across road and rail networks, aiming to capture more Eurasian transit and support export diversification. While granular breakdowns were limited, the figures point to momentum in Kazakhstan’s bid to position itself as a regional hub connecting China, Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Europe.

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Border Overhaul Speeds China–Europe Trade Corridors with Smart Customs Upgrades

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan is fast-tracking a comprehensive modernization of its busiest border checkpoints to expand capacity, cut queues, and digitize cargo flows on China–Europe routes. Under Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov’s directive, the Finance Ministry is supervising daily progress as lanes are widened, intelligent traffic systems deployed, and new scanners and weigh-in-motion complexes installed. Contractors have shifted to two shifts with additional machinery to accelerate delivery. Officials frame the crossings as strategic trade gateways reinforcing the country’s Eurasian transit role, with end-to-end online cargo monitoring designed to reduce time and corruption risks while enabling carriers to pre‑schedule slots and agencies to access real-time data. Authorities expect faster border clearance, higher trade volumes, job creation, and deeper diversification once the new customs standard is in place.

"Oversight is conducted daily. No one will escape personal responsibility." - Ernar Erzhanov, Chief of Staff, Finance Ministry (dknews.kz)

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Published: 2025-08-22

A coordinated push to eliminate bottlenecks on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route has accelerated freight growth, rising from 0.8 million tons in 2020 to 4.5 million tons in 2024, with a further 2.3 million tons in H1 2025 (+7% y/y). Infrastructure milestones include commissioning the Dostyk–Moyynty rail line, building an Almaty bypass, deepening Kuryk’s basin, and launching a container hub at Aktau. A Kazakh-owned multimodal terminal opened in June 2025 at Georgia’s Poti port (8.9 ha; 120,000 TEU/year). The 2023 creation of Middle Corridor Multimodal Ltd with Azerbaijan and Georgia offers guaranteed tariffs and delivery under a one-stop model; China Railway Container Transport (CRCT) is slated to join following a November 2024 memorandum. Customs automation cut train clearance to 30 minutes from up to three hours. Cross-Caspian truck flows are also scaling via Kuryk.

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Environment

Vegetable Oil Output Jumps 24% with Expanded Oilseed Acreage and Stronger Exports

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s vegetable oil production rose 24% year-on-year to 521,200 tons in January–July 2025, driven largely by sunflower oil, which reached 457,700 tons, up 24.5%. For 2024 overall, output totaled 753,000 tons, 12% higher than 2023, with sunflower oil up 18.3%. Capacity remains underutilized: 88 processing plants can handle 4.7 million tons of oilseeds annually, yet average utilization is about 35%, indicating ample room to scale. Exports of vegetable oils increased 29% in 2024, led by China (42.4% of shipments), followed by Uzbekistan (35.4%), Tajikistan (12.7%), Afghanistan (3.2%), Kyrgyzstan (1.4%), and Latvia and Turkmenistan combined (1.8%). Production growth follows a 36% expansion in oilseed sowing areas in 2025 (+1.055 million ha), with record sunflower plantings (+481,000 ha) and major gains in flax and rapeseed. Regional leaders in sunflower expansion include Pavlodar, Kostanay, North Kazakhstan, and Akmola.

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Storm Warnings Issued for Astana and 17 Regions on August 23

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazhydromet issued a storm warning for most of the country on August 23, covering Astana and 17 regions due to forecasted adverse weather. The alert signals potential disruptions to transport, construction schedules, and outdoor operations, with short-notice planning recommended for businesses and travelers. Such nationwide advisories typically indicate risks of strong winds, heavy precipitation, or poor visibility. Authorities often advise monitoring regional updates and following local emergency guidance, as conditions can vary significantly between western steppe areas and eastern highlands. No detailed breakdown of affected regions or specific hazards was provided in the initial notice. Travelers connecting through Astana should check airline and rail updates, and employers may consider flexible arrangements for fieldwork and commuting. No official quotes were included in the report.

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Innovation

Cross-Border Freight to Pilot Digital Queue at Aisha Bibi–Chon-Kapka with Data-Sharing Integration

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee and Kyrgyzstan’s State Tax Service signed a memorandum to deploy a “convenient digital border” model, launching an electronic queue pilot at the Aisha Bibi (KZ)–Chon-Kapka (KG) road checkpoints. The system will integrate Kazakhstan’s electronic consignment notes and Kyrgyzstan’s e-invoices, allowing pre-booking with full cargo data visible during reservation. Mandatory e-documents, introduced in 2022 (Kyrgyzstan) and 2023 (Kazakhstan), have already reduced sham firms and cut border inspections; integration aims to scale these gains across the entire bilateral frontier. The initiative follows 2024 head-of-state agreements and intergovernmental council approval, signaling a coordinated push for transparent trade, predictable logistics, and reduced wait times for external economic operators. Authorities project broader rollout after the pilot, aligning state and business interests in a secure, interoperable border regime.

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AI Tutor for Kazakh Language Set to Launch in November as Language Advances in Tech

Published: 2025-08-22

Kazakhstan’s National Scientific-Practical Center “Til-Qazyna” is developing an AI agent to teach the Kazakh language, scheduled for launch in November. The initiative highlights a broader push to embed Kazakh in digital tools and platforms, improving accessibility for learners and supporting localization of services. The center’s director, Makpal Zhumabai, underscored momentum in technology adoption and linguistic innovation, positioning Kazakh for wider use in education and everyday apps.

"The Kazakh language is gradually becoming a language of technology." - Makpal Zhumabai, Director of the Til-Qazyna National Scientific-Practical Center (inform.kz)

The planned AI tutor is expected to aid language acquisition domestically and for the diaspora, with potential integration into media and e-learning ecosystems. Officials frame the move as part of a long-term strategy to modernize language infrastructure and expand digital content in Kazakh.

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Qostanai Investment Forum Showcases Regional AI Push, Telecom Upgrades, and Industry Automation

Published: 2025-08-22

Qostanai Investment Forum 2025 positioned the region as a testbed for AI-driven transformation across agriculture, utilities, and manufacturing. Authorities launched phase two of new mobile base stations and signed a Beeline Kazakhstan MoU to extend telecom infrastructure, while KIA Qazaqstan plans to deploy about 70 industrial robots to stabilize quality and output. The regional hub, Qostanai Hub, expanded startup dealflow with Pizza Pitch and showcased local solutions like EasyTap for hourly staffing. Officials emphasized alignment with national priorities and EU AI regulatory trends.

"We are actively deploying AI across several areas in line with the President’s directive to accelerate regional adoption" - Governor Kumar Aksakalov (egemen.kz)

"Regional initiatives like Qostanai Hub are integral to the country’s digital transformation strategy" - Vice Minister of Digital Development Dmitry Mun (dknews.kz)

"We will introduce around 70 industrial robots in production to ensure stable automation and product quality" - KIA Qazaqstan CEO Kim Dae Ki (egemen.kz)

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Almaty to Open 12 New Schools on September 1 as City Expands and Upgrades Education Capacity

Published: 2025-08-22

Almaty will open 12 new schools on September 1 under the “Future Schools” and “Rehabilitation of 1,300 Schools” national programs, aiming to ease classroom shortages and modernize facilities. In total, 21 schools for 34,800 students are under construction, including 13 with Samruk-Kazyna Construction; seven will open on the first day of the school year, five more by end-August, and additional projects follow through 2027. Private investors are building eight schools via a purchase mechanism, with two launching in September and others by late 2025. The city is also reinforcing 13 schools and eight annexes for seismic safety, and advancing major repairs across kindergartens and colleges. Heating-season readiness is largely complete across education institutions. The plan includes a 550-seat school in Zerdeli and a 1,200-seat school acquisition in Nauryzbay by end-2025, signaling sustained expansion of safe, modern classroom capacity.

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Astana Launches 2025 Innovation Accelerator to Pilot Urban Tech Solutions

Published: 2025-08-22

Astana has opened applications for the 2025 Astana Innovations Accelerator, inviting startups with ready-made solutions and teams willing to build products from scratch under city technical briefs. Applications are due by 3 September 2025 via the Astana Hub platform. Fifteen projects will be selected—10 with existing solutions and five developing new products—for pilots across city facilities in sectors including healthcare, education, security, public space, infrastructure, transport, economy, business services, and ecology. Successful pilots may receive KZT 5 million under a SAFE agreement, with foreign startups eligible if they register a legal entity in Kazakhstan and derive revenue from prioritized activities. Organizers emphasize real-world deployment and rapid iteration with municipal services and expert support over a two-month program ending in a Demo Day to pitch results to authorities, business, and investors.

"Astana Innovations Accelerator will become a bridge between the city and tech teams; it is crucial the solutions are used in practice to raise quality of life in the capital." - Ghizat Amirgali, Chairman of the Board, Astana Innovations (aikyn.kz)

"The format targets concrete city tasks, giving participants access to test sites, joint work with services, and sector experts— a clear path to integrating solutions into urban systems." - Yerbol Akhmetov, Head of Business Programs Office, Astana Hub (aikyn.kz)

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