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Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan Daily: IMF Reveals GDP Shifts, eGov App Upgrades, and Tenge Volatility Continues

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Economy

IMF Data Shows Regional GDP Leadership Shifts with New Economic Drivers

Published: 2025-08-14

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released new data projecting that, in 2025, per capita GDP in Kazakhstan will surpass all other post-Soviet states, reaching an estimated $14,770. This marks a significant lead over regional peers such as Georgia ($9,570), Armenia ($8,860), and Azerbaijan ($7,600). The IMF attributes this economic performance to a combination of factors: abundant natural resources, ongoing reforms, increased foreign investment, infrastructure modernization, and a focus on social sectors like education and healthcare. The country's strategic location between Europe and Asia, along with participation in initiatives like China's Belt and Road, further enhances its role in international trade and logistics. While per capita GDP does not directly reflect individual incomes, it signals broader economic health and the potential for expanded social programs. The IMF's findings suggest a consolidation of regional economic leadership and a move toward higher global economic status for the country.

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Exchange Rates Updated as Tenge Faces Continued Volatility

Published: 2025-08-14

The National Bank of Kazakhstan released updated foreign exchange rates for August 14, with the tenge trading at 537.96 per US dollar and 630.27 per euro. Exchange offices in Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent reflected similar rates, indicating ongoing volatility in the local currency. The published rates also included the Turkish lira (13.21), Kyrgyz som (6.15), UAE dirham (146.48), British pound (729.80), Chinese yuan (74.98), Russian ruble (6.73), and Ukrainian hryvnia (12.96) against the tenge. While the National Bank has not issued a new statement on intervention, recent fluctuations underscore the importance of monitoring official sources for updates. The consistent reporting across major cities suggests a coordinated approach to currency management, which is significant for businesses and individuals engaged in cross-border transactions.

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Authorities Monitor AI-95 Gasoline Supply as Seasonal Demand Rises

Published: 2025-08-14

Kazakhstan's Ministry of Energy is closely monitoring the supply of AI-95 gasoline in response to a notable increase in seasonal demand. Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov convened meetings with executives from KazMunayGas, major fuel station operators, and fuel suppliers to address the situation. The current national stock of AI-95 stands at 67,000 tons, equivalent to 16 days of consumption, with daily replenishment from domestic refineries. Consumption in July 2025 rose by 18% compared to the previous year, and further growth is anticipated in August. The government has prioritized maintaining stable prices and preventing shortages, instructing fuel market participants to ensure minimum reserves at depots and stations, secure timely delivery contracts, and promptly report any risks. The Ministry will continue daily coordination with market players to ensure supply stability and price predictability.

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AI-95 Gasoline Sales Restricted to Vouchers in Northern Region

Published: 2025-08-14

Several fuel stations in North Kazakhstan Region have begun selling AI-95 gasoline exclusively through special cards and vouchers, according to local media reports. This restriction limits public access to the higher-octane fuel, which may impact both private motorists and businesses relying on AI-95 for their vehicles. The move comes amid ongoing concerns about fuel supply and distribution in the region, though no official statements or reasons for the change have been provided by authorities. The situation highlights potential supply chain or regulatory challenges affecting fuel availability in the area. International observers and businesses operating in the region may need to monitor developments closely, as further restrictions or rationing could affect transportation and logistics operations.

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Job Fair in Astana Offers 2,000 Positions Across Multiple Sectors

Published: 2025-08-14

A large-scale job fair was held at the Abu Dhabi Plaza shopping and entertainment center in Astana, organized by the Esil District Akimat and the Center for Labor Mobility. The event, part of the Year of Working Professions initiative, featured approximately 2,000 job vacancies across various industries. The fair aimed to address workforce needs in the capital and facilitate employment opportunities for job seekers. Such initiatives are part of broader efforts to support labor market mobility and professional development in Astana, reflecting ongoing priorities to match employers with qualified candidates and reduce unemployment rates in the city.

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Price Caps on Essential Food Items to End with New Regulatory Approach

Published: 2025-08-14

Kazakhstan will remove price caps on socially significant food products starting January 1, 2026, shifting instead to stricter oversight of retail markups and expanded targeted social assistance. The Ministry of Trade and Integration announced that legislative changes will underpin this transition. A pilot for a 'Digital Food Voucher' system is underway, allowing recipients of targeted social assistance to purchase essential goods at cost price, without additional markups.

"It is planned to remove price caps on socially significant food products in the area of price regulation. Instead, control over retail markups will be strengthened and support measures within targeted social assistance will be expanded. The relevant legislative changes will take effect from January 1, 2026," - Serik Zhumangarin, Minister of Trade and Integration (egemen.kz)

Additionally, a new law on exchange trading, effective since July, introduces the concept of 'socially significant exchange-traded goods'—including oil products, coal, and sugar—aiming to improve price transparency and monitoring.

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Single-Window Investment Procedures Updated with New Regulations

Published: 2025-08-14

The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs has introduced changes to the procedures governing the 'single-window' principle for investors, as well as the protocols for interagency cooperation during investment attraction. These amendments, enacted by an order dated August 7, 2025, aim to streamline the organizational framework for investors seeking to enter the market. The updated regulations are expected to clarify the roles of various government bodies and improve the efficiency of investment processes. This move reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the investment climate and reduce administrative barriers for foreign and domestic investors. The changes may have significant implications for companies planning to establish or expand operations, as they could affect timelines and required documentation for investment projects.

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US Dollar Exchange Rate Holds Steady on KASE

Published: 2025-08-14

The US dollar exchange rate remained unchanged on the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE) following the latest trading session in Almaty. This stability in the currency market reflects ongoing steadiness in foreign exchange dynamics, with no significant fluctuations reported. The unchanged rate may indicate a period of equilibrium in the financial sector, providing predictability for businesses and investors engaged in cross-border transactions. Such stability is often viewed as a positive sign for market participants monitoring currency risks and planning financial operations in the region. No official statements or policy announcements accompanied the trading results.

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Central Bank Reports Improved Economic Activity in Real Sector

Published: 2025-08-14

The National Bank of Kazakhstan has observed a notable improvement in economic activity within the real sector during the second quarter of 2025. This assessment is based on a recent enterprise monitoring survey, as explained by Rustem Oralalin, Director of the Monetary Policy Department. The findings suggest a positive trend in business operations, which may indicate strengthening confidence among enterprises and a gradual recovery in key industries. Enhanced economic activity in the real sector is significant for overall economic stability and could influence future monetary policy decisions. The National Bank's ongoing monitoring provides valuable insights for policymakers and investors tracking Kazakhstan's economic trajectory.

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Major Investment Fund Signals $1.5 Billion Commitment to Infrastructure and Green Energy Projects

Published: 2025-08-14

During recent negotiations, long-term investment opportunities in sectors such as transport logistics, agriculture, raw material processing, renewable energy, oil refining, and high-tech manufacturing were highlighted. ValueLBH Fund, an international investment fund specializing in real estate, energy, infrastructure, and agribusiness, expressed readiness to invest up to $1.5 billion in Kazakhstan. Key projects discussed include the construction and modernization of logistics hubs with access to international corridors, the introduction of advanced technologies in the agro-industrial complex, joint ventures in solar and wind energy, and expansion of oil refining capacities. The Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, G. Ospanqulov, emphasized the country's supportive environment for investors, stating:

"Cooperation with leading international investment funds opens additional opportunities for economic diversification and the introduction of advanced technologies. We are fully prepared to support promising projects in our country." - G. Ospanqulov, Chairman, Investment Committee

ValueLBH Fund representatives praised Kazakhstan's strategic location and stable macroeconomic outlook, noting its suitability for integrating into global supply chains and launching large-scale export-oriented initiatives. Both parties agreed to continue consultations and consider framework agreements to formalize their commitments.

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Yuan-Denominated Bonds Planned for Chinese Financial Market Entry

Published: 2025-08-14

Kazakhstan's Vice Minister of Finance, Dauren Kenbeil, recently held a series of high-level meetings in Beijing with Chinese financial authorities, including the Ministry of Finance, the People's Bank of China (PBoC), and the National Association of Financial Market Institutional Investors (NAFMII). Discussions focused on expanding bilateral economic and financial cooperation, with both sides agreeing to deepen ties. A key outcome was the agreement to issue bonds denominated in Chinese yuan on the Chinese financial market, a move that could diversify Kazakhstan's funding sources and strengthen its financial integration with China. The parties also agreed to draft an interagency memorandum to formalize cooperation and reviewed progress on joint investment projects. Chinese officials expressed strong support for Kazakhstan's interest in accessing the yuan market, signaling a positive outlook for future collaboration.

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Residential Building Demolished After Investors Lose 4 Billion Tenge in Astana

Published: 2025-08-14

A residential building in Astana, funded by investors who collectively contributed 4 billion tenge, has been demolished. The incident has prompted an investigation by the Astana city police into the construction company responsible for the project. Authorities are examining the company's actions for potential negligence and mismanagement, as the demolition has left investors without their expected properties or returns. This case highlights ongoing challenges in Kazakhstan's real estate sector, particularly regarding the protection of shareholder rights and the enforcement of accountability among developers. The outcome of the police investigation may set important precedents for future construction projects and investor safeguards in the country.

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Mandatory Use of National Product Catalog Set for Next Year

Published: 2025-08-14

Starting next year, businesses in Kazakhstan will be required to use the National Product Catalog, following the adoption of new legal norms and the establishment of classification procedures this year. The catalog, currently operating in pilot mode, is designed to standardize product information and streamline trade processes. Deputy Minister of Trade and Integration, Aset Nusipov, announced the update during a press briefing, highlighting the government's commitment to digitalizing trade infrastructure. The move is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in product classification, benefiting both domestic and international trade participants. Companies operating in Kazakhstan should prepare for the transition to ensure compliance and integration with the new system.

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Dividend Season Drives Investor Focus on Leading KASE Companies

Published: 2025-08-14

Kazakhstan's dividend season, spanning February to mid-April, typically sees heightened investor activity as companies disclose annual and Q4 results, revealing dividend plans. Historically, the KASE index has averaged a 4.2% rise during this period from 2017 to 2025, with growth reaching 7% when excluding outlier years affected by global shocks. Eight out of ten KASE index constituents, including Halyk Bank, KEGOC, Air Astana, KazMunayGas, Kaspi.kz, Kazatomprom, Kazakhtelecom, and KazTransOil, pay dividends, making dividend yield a key factor for local investors. Halyk Bank leads with a 12.4% yield and strong fundamentals, while KEGOC offers stability and a yield of 11.6%. KazTransOil and Air Astana follow, though both have seen shifts in investor sentiment due to changes in dividend policy. Special one-off dividends, such as Kazakhtelecom's 16.64% yield after asset sales, highlight the impact of extraordinary events on returns. Dividend payments, mainly in May and June, continue to shape market dynamics and investor strategies.

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Diplomacy

US Secures 99-Year Lease on Zangezur Corridor as Armenia and Azerbaijan Sign Peace Declaration

Published: 2025-08-14

Armenia and Azerbaijan have signed a historic peace declaration in Washington, with the US securing a 99-year lease to manage and develop the Zangezur transit corridor through Armenian territory. This agreement is expected to significantly alter regional logistics, enabling direct trade routes between Central Asia, Turkey, and Europe, and reducing reliance on Russian transit. Kazakhstan played a mediating role, offering Almaty as a negotiation venue and supporting the peace process. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to regional stability and diplomatic solutions, stating:

"Kazakhstan is ready to provide its platform for negotiations, further contributing to the political dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan." - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev

The corridor's development is anticipated to boost Kazakhstan's export capacity and diversify its trade routes, while also shifting the geopolitical balance by increasing US influence and potentially diminishing Russian and Iranian roles in the region. Experts note that the corridor could become a land-based equivalent of the Panama Canal, with major powers such as the US, China, and the EU having vested interests in its success.

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New Monograph Explores Presidential Diplomacy and Strategic Adaptation

Published: 2025-08-14

A new monograph authored by leading experts in international relations and global economics examines the three core principles of President Tokayev's diplomatic approach and Kazakhstan's strategies for adapting its foreign policy to a rapidly changing global environment. The publication analyzes the interplay between domestic political reforms and external policy, highlighting the country's responses to international crises such as those in Afghanistan and Ukraine, as well as global climate challenges. During the book's presentation, Alua Zholdybalina, Deputy Director of the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KISI), emphasized:

"President Tokayev's diplomacy is not just a foreign policy direction. It is a comprehensive strategic vision that strengthens our country's reputation on the international stage and demonstrates our maturity as a responsible global partner." - Alua Zholdybalina, KISI

The monograph aims to serve not only specialists but also a broader audience interested in Kazakhstan's evolving role in world affairs.

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Infrastructure

Astana LRT Sets Preliminary Fare and Launch Timeline

Published: 2025-08-14

Astana's city administration has announced that the initial fare for the upcoming Light Rail Transit (LRT) system is expected to be up to 200 tenge per ride, with the final tariff to be determined after trial operations. The first LRT trains are scheduled to begin test runs in September, and the full launch date will depend on the results of these trials. According to Mayor Zhenis Kassymbek, the trial phase is anticipated to last between three and six months.

"The full launch date will be determined based on the results of the trial. Typically, trial operations last from three to six months." - Zhenis Kassymbek, Mayor of Astana

This development marks a significant step in Astana's efforts to modernize its public transportation infrastructure, with the LRT project aiming to improve urban mobility and reduce congestion as the city continues to grow.

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Sanatorium Upgrades and Regional Integration Discussed at Eurasian Intergovernmental Council in Kyrgyzstan

Published: 2025-08-14

Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov led a Kazakh delegation to the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council meeting in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, where strategic priorities for economic integration within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) were discussed. The agenda included advancing digital integration in customs and tax administration and enhancing information exchange using modern technologies. Bektenov also inspected the construction and modernization of Kazakh-owned sanatoriums in Kyrgyzstan, including the new building for the "Kazakhstan" resort and planned upgrades for the "Samal" holiday home and "Universitet" sports camp. The projects aim to provide modern facilities and year-round services, with investment agreements and design documentation underway. Bektenov instructed responsible ministries to ensure quality implementation and expedite necessary procedures, emphasizing that "the projects will remain under government oversight." The developments reflect both Kazakhstan's commitment to regional cooperation and its investment in cross-border tourism and sports infrastructure.

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Major Infrastructure Upgrades Planned for Alakol and Balkhash Tourism Hubs

Published: 2025-08-14

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Zhetysu region governor Beibit Isabayev to review the region’s economic progress and future plans, with a strong focus on tourism development at Alakol and Balkhash lakes. The region attracted 178 billion tenge in investment in the first half of 2024, a 29.5% increase year-on-year. A portfolio of 128 projects worth 2.6 trillion tenge is planned for 2025-2027, including a mining complex, an industrial park, wind power plant, and a new international airport. Infrastructure upgrades are underway: the Usharal airport runway has been renovated, sewage and power lines are being modernized, and the main road connecting Lepsi village to Balkhash Lake is being reconstructed. The master plan for the Balkhash tourist-recreational zone has been completed. President Tokayev emphasized the importance of improving tourist infrastructure and living conditions, as well as ensuring readiness for the upcoming heating season.

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Automated Passport Control System Reduces Border Crossing Time at Kordai

Published: 2025-08-14

A pilot launch of the Qgate automated passport control system at the Kordai checkpoint on the Kyrgyz border has reduced individual border crossing times to as little as 1.5 minutes. The system enables travelers to independently scan their documents, streamlining the process and increasing the checkpoint's overall capacity. This modernization effort is part of a broader initiative to upgrade border infrastructure, following directives from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The improvements are expected to facilitate smoother cross-border movement and support regional connectivity. The modernization was reviewed by Olzhas Bektenov, who inspected the progress at border checkpoints with Kyrgyzstan.

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Almaty Metro Expansion Expected to Ease City Congestion

Published: 2025-08-14

Almaty is set to launch a new metro line, with officials expressing confidence that the expanded network will significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve urban mobility. During an inspection of the construction sites, Senator S. Mäkejanov emphasized the broader impact of the project, stating:

"Metro will reduce a significant portion of the load, providing fast and convenient access to various districts. This is not just an infrastructure project, but a step that directly affects the quality of life and economic activity of the metropolis." - Senator S. Mäkejanov (egemen.kz)

The senator also met with the head of the Almaty Public Council to discuss key social and economic development issues, and visited the Social Services House to review efforts aimed at improving public support systems. These engagements highlight ongoing efforts to address urban challenges such as housing, employment, education, and healthcare, with an emphasis on effective cooperation between authorities and citizens for timely solutions.

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Society

Foreign Worker Detained for Unauthorized Employment at Astana Railway Facility

Published: 2025-08-14

A 29-year-old foreign national was detained by the Astana station's transport police on August 13 for working without proper authorization at the locomotive depot of the Astana station. The individual was found to be engaged in labor activities without the required permits, according to local authorities. This incident highlights ongoing enforcement of labor and migration regulations at critical infrastructure sites in the capital. The case underscores the importance for foreign workers to ensure compliance with local employment laws, particularly in sensitive sectors such as transportation. No official statements or personal comments were provided in the report.

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International Standards in Human Rights and Social Work Discussed at Astana Forum

Published: 2025-08-14

A forum in Astana, organized by the "Baqytty Bala" Public Foundation, the National Alliance of Professional Social Workers, and the Center for Support of Civil Initiatives, brought together representatives from government, NGOs, educational institutions, and international organizations to address the integration of international standards into Kazakhstan's human rights and social work sectors. Key topics included adapting global best practices in education, social services, and healthcare, as well as enhancing the inclusion of vulnerable groups in civic processes. The event emphasized the need for cross-sectoral cooperation and ongoing exchange with international experts. Participants highlighted the importance of improving the training and qualification systems for social workers to meet international requirements, and discussed institutional development, resource accessibility for NGOs, and legal mechanisms to protect children's rights and prevent discrimination. Recommendations from the forum will be submitted to relevant state bodies and civil society institutions for further consideration.

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Top Destinations Highlighted for International Visitors as Tourism Promotion Expands

Published: 2025-08-14

The Ministry of Culture and Information has released a curated list of ten recommended destinations for first-time international visitors, aiming to showcase the country's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. The list includes the modern capital city with its distinctive architecture, the cultural hub of Almaty surrounded by mountains, and natural wonders such as the Sharyn Canyon and Burabay. Other highlights feature UNESCO-listed Turkistan, the singing sands of Altyn-Emel, and unique sites like the split-water Lake Balkhash and the Mars-like Ustyurt Plateau. The initiative reflects a broader effort to encourage exploration beyond business venues and hotels, emphasizing local hospitality and traditional cuisine. The recommendations are designed to help visitors experience both urban and natural attractions, supporting the country's growing tourism sector and enhancing its international profile.

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Housing Management Law Expands Residents’ Choice and Oversight

Published: 2025-08-14

Kazakhstan has enacted significant amendments to housing and communal services legislation, introducing new requirements for residents, management companies, and cooperatives. The reforms clarify the legal status of homeowners’ cooperatives, mandate separate accounts for each building, and streamline management options to either a homeowners’ association or direct self-management. The law also enhances transparency, requiring monthly financial reports and regular audits, with increased penalties for non-compliance. Residents now have greater autonomy in selecting management structures and can more easily hold managers accountable.

"The main goal of the law is to give residents the right to choose, increase transparency, and improve the overall management system for multi-apartment buildings," - Karakhan Kabi, Head of the Housing and Communal Services Development Department (aikyn.kz).

The law also exempts cooperatives from certain taxes, while management companies remain subject to business regulations. These changes aim to address previous reform shortcomings and empower residents with more control over their property management.

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Environment

Central Asian States Intensify Water Cooperation as Shardara Reservoir Levels Drop

Published: 2025-08-14

Senior officials from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan convened for the 90th session of the Interstate Coordination Water Commission to address mounting challenges in transboundary water management. The meeting focused on the region’s worsening agro-climatic conditions and the urgent need for equitable water allocation, particularly as the Shardara reservoir’s water volume has fallen below the multi-year average, posing risks to downstream supply. Vice Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev emphasized the gravity of the situation and called for accelerated action:

"The water volume in the Shardara reservoir has dropped below the multi-year average. This is not just a statistic—it is a real threat to water supply in the lower reaches. Unfortunately, decisions made within this commission are not being fully implemented, causing significant difficulties in regulating water regimes. Time demands that we act much faster. We must not only discuss and plan, but also take concrete measures." - Kanat Bozumbayev, Vice Prime Minister

Bilateral talks with Tajikistan and Uzbekistan addressed operational regimes for the Syr Darya and Amu Darya river basins and preparations for the next growing season. The next commission meeting will be held in Turkmenistan.

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Severe Weather and Fire Risks Escalate as Storms and Heat Sweep Regions

Published: 2025-08-14

Meteorological forecasts for August 14 and 15 indicate highly variable weather across the country, with significant regional contrasts. Northern and western cities such as Astana, Kokshetau, and Oral are expected to experience thunderstorms, heavy rain, and hail, accompanied by strong winds reaching up to 23 m/s in some areas. In contrast, southern regions including Shymkent, Turkistan, and Taraz will continue to face extreme heat, with daytime temperatures soaring to 38°C. Authorities have issued storm warnings for several areas, highlighting not only the risk of severe weather but also elevated fire danger, particularly in Turkistan, Shymkent, and Taraz. The forecast for August 15 extends these warnings, with continued thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds predicted for much of the country, and a persistent high fire risk in southern and eastern regions. These conditions may disrupt transportation and increase emergency response needs, especially in areas prone to wildfires and severe storms.

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Innovation

eGov Mobile App Launches Major Upgrade with AI and Enhanced Security

Published: 2025-08-14

The eGov Mobile application, now serving over 11 million users, has undergone its most significant update in recent years. The overhaul includes a redesigned interface, improved navigation, and the introduction of an AI-powered virtual assistant, eGov AI, which streamlines access to government services and provides real-time guidance in a chat format. Users can now instantly access digital documents such as IDs and passports from the main screen, and utilize a new catalog for life events, offering step-by-step instructions for common bureaucratic processes. Enhanced security measures have been implemented to better protect personal data and increase resilience to external threats. The update reflects a rapid increase in demand for digital public services, with user numbers growing sixfold over five years. The collaboration between the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry and National Information Technologies JSC underlines the government's commitment to digital transformation and user-centric service delivery.

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Published: 2025-08-14

Kazakhstan has emerged as a regional leader in mobile internet speed, surpassing several European and Asian countries, with recent advancements attributed to the rollout of 5G networks by Tele2/Altel and Kcell. Tele2 was recognized by Ookla for providing the best 5G network in the country, factoring in both speed and user experience. Major cities like Astana and Almaty now rank 43rd and 63rd globally for internet speed, respectively. In a significant development, the Ministry of Digital Development signed an agreement with Starlink (SpaceX) to officially launch satellite internet services nationwide, aiming to reach remote and hard-to-access regions by Q3 2025.

"Kazakhstan is a vast country with a dispersed population. To provide quality internet to all residents, we use various methods, but there are still challenging areas. Now, with this agreement, Starlink will operate in compliance with national security and communications laws, and residents will be able to access satellite internet legally," – Minister Jaslan Madiev (aikyn.kz)

Efforts continue to connect over 3,000 villages with high-speed internet by 2027, though some rural areas still report inadequate service quality.

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National AI Strategy in Development as Stakeholders Convene for Strategic Session

Published: 2025-08-14

A strategic session organized by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry brought together IT professionals, business leaders, academics, NGOs, and government officials to discuss the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country. The session served as a platform for open dialogue and the formulation of practical solutions for AI integration across various sectors. Minister Zhaslan Madiev emphasized the priority of AI in the nation’s digitalization agenda, highlighting ongoing efforts to create favorable conditions for AI adoption in both the economy and public administration. First Vice Minister Kanish Toleushin underscored the importance of a national AI strategy, stating it will provide a foundation for systematic and sustainable AI development. Participants addressed key issues such as infrastructure, support for AI startups, talent retention, ethical and legal considerations, and public sector implementation. The session concluded with the development of concrete proposals to foster a national AI ecosystem.

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4G Spectrum Auction Announced for Mobile Network Expansion

Published: 2025-08-14

The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry has announced an auction for the use of 791–801/832–842 MHz frequencies to support the expansion of 4G mobile connectivity. This move is aimed at enhancing mobile network infrastructure and coverage across the country. The auction is expected to attract interest from major telecommunications operators, potentially leading to improved service quality and broader access to high-speed mobile internet. The allocation of these frequencies is part of ongoing efforts to modernize digital infrastructure and meet growing demand for reliable mobile communications. No direct statements or quotes from officials were provided in the announcement.

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Cybersecurity Conference Unites Government, Business, and Experts with Focus on Zero-Day Threats

Published: 2025-08-14

Central Asia's largest practical cybersecurity conference, KazHackStan 2025, will convene in Almaty from September 17–19, bringing together over 6,000 participants and more than 65 speakers from Kazakhstan, the CIS, Europe, Asia, and the US. The event, themed around "Zero Day" vulnerabilities—security flaws unknown to defenders but exploitable by cybercriminals—will address the growing risks to critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, transport, and communications. The conference aims to foster collaboration among government agencies, businesses, expert communities, and hackers. Askar Rakhymbayuly, Chairman of the Board of the State Technical Service, is set to share his perspective on key challenges and the future of national cyber defense systems. The event is organized by TSARKA Group in partnership with the Cyber Defense Center of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry.

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Health

National Task Force Established to Coordinate Anti-Drug Efforts

Published: 2025-08-14

A new national task force has been established by the government to coordinate state agencies in combating drug addiction and related crimes, following directives from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The Prime Minister will lead the task force, with the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Internal Affairs serving as deputies. The task force's mandate includes developing effective prevention strategies, improving rehabilitation systems, and enhancing interagency cooperation. Its membership comprises senior officials from the Prosecutor General’s Office, National Security Committee, Financial Monitoring Agency, National Bank, and other key ministries. Regional task forces will also be formed in major cities and provinces. This move signals a comprehensive, state-level approach to tackling drug-related issues, aiming to streamline policy implementation and strengthen preventive and rehabilitative measures across the country.

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Japan Allocates 4 Billion Tenge for Medical Aid to Semey Nuclear Test Victims

Published: 2025-08-14

Japan has pledged 4 billion tenge to support residents affected by the Semey nuclear test site, enabling the purchase of modern medical equipment for early disease detection. The initiative will also provide free medical services to those impacted. Between 1949 and 1991, 497 nuclear explosions occurred in the Abai region, with the long-term health consequences still felt by the local population. Authorities are finalizing documentation and plan to open a specialized center, aiming to complete the project by the end of 2026. Collaboration between the 'Committee Polygon-21' public association and local officials will establish a comprehensive work plan to determine the exact number of affected individuals. The move underscores ongoing international concern for the legacy of nuclear testing in the region and highlights efforts to address unresolved public health issues.

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Three Anthrax Cases Reported in Shymkent and Turkistan Region

Published: 2025-08-14

Health authorities have confirmed three cases of anthrax in southern Kazakhstan. Two patients are residents of Shymkent, while the third is from Bäidibek district in Turkistan Region. The identification of these cases highlights ongoing public health concerns related to zoonotic diseases in the region, where livestock farming is prevalent. Local medical services are monitoring the situation and implementing containment measures to prevent further spread. The emergence of anthrax cases underscores the importance of veterinary controls and public awareness, especially during the summer months when contact with livestock increases. No official statements or personal comments from health officials or affected individuals were included in the initial report.

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