Society
The provisions of the new Tax Code were explained in Almaty 16.02.2026
In Almaty, the transitional provisions of the new Tax Code were explained and a special tax regime that came into effect on January 1 of this year was discussed. A press conference held at the Regional Communications Service was devoted to this topic. At it, the leadership of the State Revenue Department of Almaty explained in detail what changes will occur for the self-employed, small businesses and farms, and what taxpayers should consider during the transitional period. Before the introduction of the new Tax Code, Kazakhstan used seven special tax regimes, including a patent, a mobile application, a simplified declaration, a fixed deduction, a retail tax, and separate regimes for agricultural producers. Starting in 2026, the system will be streamlined: only the regime for the self-employed, a simplified declaration-based regime, and three special tax regimes for farms will remain. The goal of the changes is to make taxation clearer, reduce the administrative burden, and maximize access to social protection. The new special tax regime for the self-employed is available to citizens and compatriots of Kazakhstan with low income who are not registered as individual entrepreneurs, do not use hired labor, and are engaged in permitted activities. Monthly income should not exceed 300 MCI (approximately 1.3 million tenge). Under this regime, registration as an individual entrepreneur is not required, tax reporting is not submitted, and the personal income tax rate is set at 0 percent. "The new regime for the self-employed is the most simplified and is aimed at citizens with low and unstable incomes. The only obligation is to pay social payments in the amount of 4 percent of income. This will make the pension system, medicine and social insurance more accessible. This is an important step towards legalizing self-employment and protecting the rights of citizens," explained Nurlybek Ospanov, Head of the Administration of Individual Entrepreneurs and Individuals of the State Revenue Department of Almaty. All operations of self-employed individuals are carried out through a special mobile application. There, checks are generated, income is recorded, and social payments are automatically calculated. For those working through Internet platforms, contributions are transferred by platform operators. In rural areas where communication is not available, obligations are fulfilled at the end of the month. The special tax regime based on a simplified declaration for small and medium-sized businesses has been preserved and updated. It can be used by taxpayers with an annual income of up to 600 thousand MCI (approximately 2.6 billion tenge) and whose type of activity is not included in the list of prohibited activities. The regime provides for a flat rate of 4 percent on personal income tax or corporate income tax, exemption from value-added tax and social tax, as well as filing declarations twice a year and paying taxes twice. "We have retained the simplified declaration, but made it more flexible and convenient for business. The high income threshold will allow entrepreneurs to grow their business without fragmentation, and the ability to take into account the wage fund will encourage official payment of wages and legalization of employment," said Baktygul Seitova, head of the public services department of the State Revenue Department of Almaty. The procedure for applying the special regime for farms has been largely preserved. After the abolition of the unified land tax, such farms will continue to pay personal income tax at the previous rate - 0.5 percent of income. They will be exempt from a number of taxes, including property tax, transport tax, VAT and social tax, and will submit reports once a year. Tax payments will be made twice a year, taking into account the seasonality of agricultural production. The procedure for transitioning to new regimes was also explained at the press conference. To use the simplified declaration, it is necessary to submit a notification through the taxpayer's account, the E-Salyq Business application, the bank's mobile application or a paper form by March 1, 2026. Otherwise, the taxpayer will automatically be transferred to the generally established regime. Self-employed persons who previously worked through a patent or mobile application will be automatically deregistered as individual entrepreneurs if they do not choose another regime. Farms will be automatically transferred without notification. "The transition period is intended to allow taxpayers to adapt to the new rules calmly and without undue hardship. It is important to determine the tax regime in a timely manner and, if necessary, provide notification. All changes are aimed at simplifying procedures and creating a more transparent and fair tax system," the department noted. The Almaty Department of State Revenues urged entrepreneurs and self-employed citizens to familiarize themselves with the new requirements in advance and use available digital services to transition to the appropriate tax regime.
Cooperation between Kazakhstan and Jordan was discussed in Amman 16.02.2026
Amman, February 16, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan H.E. Mr. Talgat Shaldanbay met with Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan H.E. Mr. Daifallah Ali Al-Fayez at the Jordanian Foreign Ministry.The sides exchanged views on current issues of Kazakh-Jordanian cooperation, noting the positive dynamics of bilateral contacts. They also reaffirmed their interest in strengthening political dialogue, expanding practical interaction, and further coordinating positions within international organizations.The Ambassador of Kazakhstan briefed the Jordanian side on recent domestic political changes in Kazakhstan. It was noted that following the National Kurultai meeting, chaired by the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, constitutional reform had been initiated. He reported that work on drafting a new version of the Constitution has already been completed, and its adoption is planned following a National referendum scheduled for March 15, 2026.Following the talks, the parties confirmed their commitment to maintaining regular contacts and developing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, emphasizing the importance of further deepening trust and mutual understanding.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-amman/press/news/details/1162885?lang=kk
В Караганде представители общественности обсудили проект новой Конституции 16.02.2026
В Караганде состоялась встреча члена Конституционной комиссии Бекзата Алтынбекова с представителями общественности.Основной темой встречи стало обсуждение проекта новой Конституции Республики Казахстан и его значения для дальнейшего развития страны.В обсуждении приняли участие представители политических партий, неправительственных организаций, Ассамблеи народа Казахстана, а также молодёжные активисты. Во время открытого диалога были подробно разъяснены ключевые положения и новеллы документа, направленные на укрепление принципов справедливости, законности, общественного согласия и расширение участия граждан в управлении государством.Особое внимание было уделено роли Основного Закона как фундамента политической стабильности, межэтнического единства и устойчивого социально-экономического развития. Отмечено, что новая прогрессивная Конституция формирует современные механизмы защиты прав и свобод граждан, усиливает ответственность государственных институтов и создаёт дополнительные возможности для развития регионов.Участники встречи поддержали проводимые конституционные реформы и предстоящий республиканский референдум, подчеркнув важность активного участия каждого гражданина в принятии ключевых для будущего страны решений.Информационно-разъяснительная работа среди населения продолжится и дальше. Аналогичные встречи должны пройти на площадках предприятий, организаций и в молодёжной среде.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/karaganda-ishki-sayasat/press/news/details/1162894?lang=kk
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov Participated in a Meeting of the Abai Regional Investment Headquarters 16.02.2026
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov took part in a meeting of the Regional Investment Headquarters (RIH) of the Abai Region during his working visit to the region.The event was organized by the regional Akimat with the participation of representatives of government agencies and the business community.As part of the visit’s working agenda, a meeting was held with the Akim of the Abai Region, Berik Uali. The parties discussed key areas of the region’s investment development, the formation of a перспектив investment portfolio, as well as measures to enhance the region’s investment attractiveness and ensure effective investor support.Addressing the meeting of the Regional Investment Headquarters, A.Kuantyrov noted that the new investment policy model is focused on unlocking the potential of the regions and actively promoting investment projects.At the regional level, the key objective is to establish an effective investor support system that ensures prompt resolution of emerging issues and creates favorable conditions for project implementation.“The work of the RIH enables us to bring interaction with investors to a fundamentally new level. It serves as a platform for the consideration of project-specific issues, strengthening interagency coordination, and systematically promoting investment initiatives in the regions,” the Deputy Minister stated.The meeting reviewed issues related to the implementation of investment projects in the Abai Region, provision of engineering and transport infrastructure, allocation of state support measures, and removal of administrative barriers for investors. Particular attention was given to enhancing the personal responsibility of government agencies and improving the effectiveness of interagency coordination.Following the meeting, further measures were identified to develop the region’s industrial and agricultural potential, as well as to strengthen cooperation between central and local government bodies.During the visit, A.Kuantyrov, together with the Akim of the region, participated in the official opening ceremony of a legumes and oilseed processing plant of Agro Leader KAZ LLP. The launch of the enterprise is aimed at developing the regional agro-industrial complex, expanding export potential, and creating new jobs.The Deputy Minister also familiarized himself with the operations of several industrial and processing enterprises in the region. In particular, he visited Kazpoligraf LLP – one of the largest enterprises specializing in packaging production and secondary raw material processing – as well as the worn tire recycling complex of Eikos LLP, which implements projects in waste processing and the production of high value-added products.Following the events, priority areas for further cooperation in supporting investment projects were identified, and readiness was reaffirmed to provide comprehensive support to investors at all stages of project implementation in the Abai Region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/invest/press/news/details/1164180?lang=kk
National Guard Servicemen Win 10 Medals at the Republic of Kazakhstan Sambo Championship 16.02.2026
The Republic of Kazakhstan Sambo Championship among adults was held in the Karaganda Region. The tournament brought together around 600 of the country’s strongest athletes from 19 regions, becoming one of the largest and most competitive events of the season.Participants demonstrated a high level of technical skill, strength of character, and will to win. The bouts on the mat were marked by intense and spectacular competition, drawing the attention of specialists and fans from across the country.Particular attention was drawn to the performance of servicemen of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who confidently asserted themselves and achieved strong results in both sport sambo and combat sambo. Results of National Guard Servicemen (Sport Sambo)Up to 58 kg — 3rd place: Private Sanzhar Ali (Military Unit 6655)Up to 64 kg — 3rd place: Private Nursultan Nursseitov (Military Unit 7552)Up to 71 kg — 3rd place: Private Makhambet Konysbay (Military Unit 3660)Up to 79 kg — 3rd place: Private Tlek Toktassynuly (Military Unit 6636)Up to 88 kg — 3rd place: Private Azat Kuatov (Military Unit 6655)Up to 98 kg — 2nd place: Corporal Elaman Koishybayev (Military Unit 6636)Over 98 kg — 1st place: Private Bolat Sapar (Military Unit 6636) Combat Sambo ResultsUp to 53 kg — 3rd place: Corporal Zhastilek Akhmetbekov (Military Unit 6697)Up to 58 kg — 1st place: Private Arman Turymbetov (Military Unit 6655)Up to 64 kg — 3rd place: Corporal Manabek Asembay (Military Unit 5518) As a result of the championship, the servicemen won a total of 10 medals: 2 gold, 1 silver, and 7 bronze.The successful performance at the championship confirmed the high level of physical and professional training of the National Guard servicemen, as well as their competitiveness on the national sports stage. Press Service of the National GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1162857?lang=kk
Kazakhstan Commences Chairmanship in Asia Pacific Regional Group at UNESCO 16.02.2026
Throughout 2026, Permanent Delegation of Kazakhstan to UNESCO is holding the chairmanship of the Asia Pacific (ASPAC) regional group in UNESCO.The first meeting of the group comprising 47 Member States took place on 13 February 2026.At the beginning of the meeting, Ambassador Askar Abdrakhmanov expressed the group members’ sincere appreciation to the very successful ASPAC chairmanship of China last year, as Chinese Ambassador Yang Xinyu symbolically handed him the chairmanship nameplate.The Kazakh diplomat then thanked the members of their group for the trust and support, and presented proposals on the group’s work plan for the current year. The delegations that participated in room or online congratulated Kazakhstan in the chairmanship and approved the presented ideas. The Group elected Thailand as Vice-President of the ASPAC Group and Republic of Korea as its Secretary / Treasurer. In conclusion, the group exchanged views on some other organizational aspects of its work ahead.The Delegation of Kazakhstan is firmly committed to continuing good cooperation within the ASPAC Group at UNESCO during its chairmanship and beyond!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-unesco/press/news/details/1162866?lang=kk
Sudden alert: Airborne assault troops have been put on high alert 16.02.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1162790?lang=kk
Kazakhstan Delegation Participates in the 39th African Union Summit 16.02.2026
Addis Ababa, February 16, 2026 – A Kazakhstan delegation led by the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the African Union, Zhalgas Adilbayev, participated in the annual 39th Summit of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), held in Addis Ababa on February 14–15, 2026.The Summit was attended by delegations from 48 AU member states at the level of Heads of State and Government and Ministers of Foreign Affairs, as well as leaders and representatives of international and regional organizations. Distinguished guests and partners included the UN Secretary-General and several high-ranking representatives from observer states to the African Union.The theme of the 39th Summit was announced as: "Ensuring Sustainable Water Supply and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063." During the sessions, particular attention was paid to issues of water security, transboundary water resource management, financing for infrastructure projects in water and sanitation, and strengthening resilience to climate change and droughts across the continent.The agenda also addressed the resolution of conflicts in various African countries, the advancement of AU institutional reforms, the continued implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, and the expansion of Africa’s role in global governance, including the reform of the UN Security Council. Additionally, preparations for upcoming international forums involving African nations were discussed.Following the Summit, relevant decisions and declarations were adopted, aimed at intensifying the collective efforts of member states to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically regarding access to clean water and sanitation.On the sidelines of the summit, Ambassador Zh.Adilbayev held meetings with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), N. Nakwipone; the Ambassador of the DRC to Ethiopia, J. Ilunga; the Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament and Member of the Ethiopian Parliament, Dr. A. Gayo; the Director of a Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Djibouti; the Ministers of Tourism, Culture, and Sport of Ethiopia; and representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Ethiopia. During these meetings, views were exchanged on topical issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, including collaboration within the framework of the UN and the AU.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-addis-ababa/press/news/details/1162798?lang=kk
Kazakhstani Servicewoman Secures an Early Victory Over Opponent from China 16.02.2026
At the Naiza 81 mixed martial arts tournament held in Kostanay, a flyweight bout took place between Kazakhstani athlete Aigerim Torekhanova and China’s representative Gulsairan Azat.Aigerim Torekhanova represents the Burkit Team sports squad of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and holds the rank of Senior Lieutenant. Prior to the fight, her professional MMA record stood at four wins and three losses. For Gulsairan Azat, this bout was only the second of her professional career — she had previously recorded one victory.The fight was scheduled for three rounds but ended in the very first round. From the opening moments, Torekhanova seized the initiative and fully controlled the course of the bout. The Kazakhstani athlete worked confidently in the stand-up, delivering precise and powerful strikes, leaving her opponent no room to respond.Torekhanova’s dominance was so evident that the live broadcast commentator described the situation as follows: “Azat is simply closing her eyes, her head snapping back from Torekhanova’s strikes…”Building on her success, Torekhanova took the fight to the ground, where she calmly and competently applied a chokehold. Gulsairan Azat was forced to submit, after which the referee stopped the contest, recording an early victory for the Kazakhstani fighter.This win became the fifth professional MMA victory in Aigerim Torekhanova’s career. For Gulsairan Azat, the defeat was the first at the professional level.The confident and spectacular performance by the servicewoman was one of the highlights of the Naiza 81 tournament and confirmed the high level of preparation of Kazakhstani female athletes on the international stage. Press Service of the National GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1162854?lang=kk
The Head of State congratulated Mikhail Shaidorov on becoming the Winter Olympic Champion 16.02.2026
Astana - The President highlighted the historic significance of the athlete's achievement, as he secured Kazakhstan's first-ever Olympic gold medal in figure skating. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has decided to award Mikhail Shaidorov with the Order of "Barys," 2nd Class.The President wished the Olympic champion continued success and many more victories to come.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-addis-ababa/press/news/details/1162783?lang=kk
The Kazakh kuresi regional championship was held in the city of Kostanay 16.02.2026
The Kostanay region Kazak kuresi championship among young people born in 2006-2008 was held in the city of Kostanay. The competitions were held in accordance with the schedule of sports events in the region.Athletes from cities and districts of Kostanay region took part in the championship. Intense and spectacular fights took place in each weight category, during which the participants demonstrated a high level of technical and physical fitness.The main purpose of the competition is to develop the national sport of Kazakh kuresi, support young athletes, and identify promising wrestlers. The tournament is also aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and strengthening the patriotic spirit among young people.Following the results of the competition, the winners and prize-winners were awarded with diplomas and medals of the corresponding degrees.The organizers would like to thank all the participants and wish them further sporting success.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1162762?lang=kk
Astana Hosts Meeting of the Regional Contact Group of Central Asian Countries on Afghanistan 16.02.2026
Astana, February 16, 2026 – An extraordinary meeting of the Regional Contact Group of Special Representatives of Central Asian countries on Afghanistan was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The meeting brought together the representatives of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.Special Representative of the President of Kazakhstan for Afghanistan Yerkin Tukumov stressed on Kazakhstan’s interest in a constructive exchange of views and in identifying practical solutions to pressing the issues of engagement with Kabul.The parties discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and matters of practical cooperation, including the development of trade and economic ties, expansion of transit and transport corridors through Afghan territory, as well as regional security issues.Participants underscored the importance of coordinating the efforts of Central Asian states in the interests of ensuring stability and sustainable development in Afghanistan.Following the meeting, the participants reaffirmed their readiness to continue regular consultations and maintain working-level contacts within the framework of the Regional Contact Group.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1162699?lang=kk
«The Afghan Frontier: The Memory of the Living» 16.02.2026
In the East Kazakhstan Regional Ethnographic Museum, the veterans of the internationalist soldiers who work in the museum were honored. The event featured a presentation about the military events in hot spots, a thematic mini-exhibition from the museum's funds, and congratulations from colleagues, the trade union committee, and amateur artists of the city. The meeting was attended by students from the Technical and Economic College, who asked questions to the veterans with great interest. The atmosphere in the hall was one of unity and friendship.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-cultura-arhiv/press/news/details/1162631?lang=kk
For the information of the deputies and the population of the city 16.02.2026
For the information of the deputies and the population of the city. On February 26, 2026, at 3 p.m., the next session of the Ust-Kamenogorsk City Maslikhat will be held (17 Permitina St., conference hall). Recommended agenda:On the construction of housingfor the privilegedcategory of the population,aswell as forresidentslivingindilapidatedordilapidatedhousingOn the implementation of the decision of the Ust-KamenogorskcityMaslikhatdatedFebruary27, 2025No.32/9"On the state of the elevatorindustry of the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk".About the report of the head of the FinanceDepartment of the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk"On the state of affairs in themanagement of communalproperty".4.Miscellaneous.Below is a link to view the online broadcast of the session https://instagram.com/maslihat_oskemen?igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg==Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ukmaslihat/press/news/details/1162554?lang=kk
Newsletter - 16.02.2026 16.02.2026
Newsletter - 16.02.2026Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-london/press/news/details/1162564?lang=kk
Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Morocco Saulekul Sailaukyzy met with Ali Seddiqi, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Promotion. 16.02.2026
Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Morocco Saulekul Sailaukyzy met with Ali Seddiqi, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Promotion. During the meeting, the parties noted the growing momentum in bilateral relations and discussed prospects for expanding trade, economic, and investment ties.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-rabat/press/news/details/1162576?lang=kk
Personal account in the new Taxpayer's Cabinet 16.02.2026
The State Revenue Committee informs that for the convenience of taxpayers in the new Taxpayer Cabinet of the “Integrated System of Tax Administration”(KNP ISNA) in the section “Personal Account” are available for viewing the balance on personal accounts, Personal Account and Statement of Personal Account. In the “Services” section you can get information about your debts.Please note that the information in these services is automatically pulled from the reference personal accounts of ISNA.To enter the new ISNA Taxpayer's Cabinet, please follow the link https://knp.kgd.gov.kz.If you have any questions, you may contact knpsd@ecc.kz of the ISNA support service, as well as the Telegram bot FinQoldau_bot. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhetysu/press/news/details/1162515?lang=kk
Regional Library Tour 16.02.2026
On February of this year, an excursion to the district library was held for convicts registered with the Probation Service No. 1 of the Bayterek district. The event was organized to introduce the convicts to the library, its rules and the wealth of the book collection.At the beginning of the tour, chief librarian D.O. Kuzhumova briefly explained how the library is organized, how to handle books correctly and where to look for them. The convicts looked at the bookshelves with interest, got acquainted with the thematic sections.Special attention was paid to the shelves with the works of Abai Kunanbayev, where the convicts were offered to choose their favorite books to read. They also learned how to find the right book, got acquainted with the Rules of the library, the rules of handling the book. The convicts looked at magazines and books with great interest. The convicts took an active part in a literary quiz on the works. The convicts really enjoyed the educational and interesting things, and they promised to come to the library to get their books. An excursion to the library not only broadened the horizons of the convicts, but also aroused interest in reading. Such events help convicts realize the value of books as a source of knowledge and inspiration. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/duis-uralsk/press/news/details/1162459?lang=kk