Society
Kazakhstan and the UN Strengthen Cooperation in the Field of Intercivilizational Dialogue 16.09.2025
Astana, September 16, 2025 – On the sidelines of the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, Akan Rakhmetullin, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan met with Miguel Angel Moratinos, the High Representative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, who is also the UN Special Envoy on Combating Islamophobia.The parties discussed topical issues of the development of the intercivilizational and interreligious dialogue, as well as the role of Kazakhstan in promoting the global agenda of peace and mutual understanding.The First Deputy Minister Rakhmetullin stressed that for many years Kazakhstan has been an initiator and an active participant in international efforts aimed at strengthening trust and cooperation between representatives of different religions and cultures. In this context, it was emphasized that the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which has grown into a respected global platform for open dialogue, holds particular significance.The interlocutors confirmed their intention to continue close cooperation in promoting the ideas of mutual respect, tolerance and solidarity in the international arena.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-pretoria/press/news/details/1077055?lang=kk
President Tokayev Outlines Vision for Kazakhstan’s Digital Future 16.09.2025
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev today delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address, “Kazakhstan in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Key Tasks and Their Solutions through Digital Transformation.”The Head of State presented an ambitious program of reform centered on digital transformation, investment modernization, global connectivity, and institutional renewal.At the heart of the address was Kazakhstan’s determination to lead in the era of artificial intelligence. President Tokayev announced the creation of a new Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, which will be headed by a Deputy Prime Minister-level specialist. The new body will spearhead Kazakhstan’s transition into what he described as a “fully digital nation within three years.” The President called for rapid adoption of a comprehensive Digital Code covering artificial intelligence, big data, and the platform economy, and directed the Government to ensure total integration of AI across all sectors of the economy.“Artificial intelligence is no longer an abstract concept,” Tokayev said. “It is already influencing the worldview and behavior of people, especially young people. We must be prepared for this reality. Kazakhstan has no alternative but to embrace this transformation.” He also highlighted financial innovations, announcing the establishment of a State Digital Asset Fund to build a strategic crypto reserve and urging the adoption of a new Banking Law by year-end to stimulate fintech and attract new market entrants.Alongside digital transformation, the President focused on investment and economic modernization. He called for a renewal of Kazakhstan’s investment attraction system, noting that excessive bureaucracy had undermined efficiency. “Attracting investment is a priority that requires new approaches,” he stated, stressing that the Prime Minister is directly responsible for overseeing this process. Tokayev also proposed introducing a Regional Investment Attractiveness Index to hold local government accountable for their economic performance, while urging a rethink of the role of the National Fund. “The Fund’s resources should be used wisely to finance promising projects with high market potential,” he said.Transport and logistics featured prominently as Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its role as a vital bridge between Europe and Asia. Tokayev announced the imminent completion of the Dostyk–Moyinty double-track railway, a project he described as “of special significance for the East–West corridor,” and pledged timely progress on other key railway links. He stated that by October a unified Smart Cargo digital customs and logistics platform must be launched, allowing private operators equal automated access to customs and logistics infrastructure. In aviation, he reiterated Kazakhstan’s strategic ambition to become the leading hub in the Eurasian space, underpinned by the proposal to create a national cargo carrier with foreign partners and integrate new airports into global logistics chains.On foreign policy, President Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s multi-vector approach, emphasizing the importance of balance and constructive engagement. He welcomed the results of recent high-level summits, including U.S.–Russia dialogue in Alaska and peace efforts between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and highlighted Kazakhstan’s growing partnerships with China, Türkiye, the Central Asia, the European Union, and the United States. Looking ahead, he underscored the need for reform of the United Nations, particularly its Security Council. “The UN still has no alternative,” he said, “but reform is overdue, above all of its key body, the Security Council.” He added he would present Kazakhstan’s views on global reform during the upcoming session of the UN General Assembly in New York.The President also proposed a major institutional reform that will have long-term political implications. He suggested a transition toward a unicameral Parliament, with the issue to be decided by a nationwide referendum in 2027. Tokayev insisted the process must be transparent and consultative: “I am convinced that it is necessary to conduct an open dialogue with the people on such fateful issues. Only then we will move forward on the path of building a Just and Strong Kazakhstan.”The President also outlined broader national priorities. These included granting special status to Alatau City as a new innovation hub, adopting a new Construction Code by the end of the year, creating a unified digital land resources map, and pursuing long-term strategies for food security and water management. He called for continued restoration of the Aral Sea, joint efforts to preserve the CaspianSea, and accelerated use of advanced water-saving technologies. In social policy, Tokayev urged reform of Kazakhstan’s extensive system of benefits to ensure sustainability and fairness, alongside measures to strengthen pensions, expand healthcare, and improve financial literacy. He further emphasized the role of education in preparing the next generation for the AI era, highlighting programs to integrate AI into school curricula and to expand digital learning for rural students.Closing his speech, President Tokayev stressed the unifying principles of law, order, and patriotism as Kazakhstan navigates global change. “If our people are united and the internal situation is stable, we will overcome all difficulties and meet any trial,” he stated.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-prague/press/news/details/1069095?lang=kk
Presidential Address discussed in Bern 16.09.2025
Bern, September 16, 2025 - The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Switzerland Kairat Sarzhanov met with members of the Swiss-Kazakh Parliamentary Friendship Group.The Ambassador of Kazakhstan informed about the main provisions of the recent Address of the President to the people of Kazakhstan, focusing on the tasks of comprehensive digital and innovative development of the country, economic modernization, planned steps to further reform the political system, strengthen education and healthcare, and develop the transport and energy sectors. The diplomat noted that the reforms carried out in Kazakhstan provide an opportunity to expand mutually beneficial partnership with Switzerland in transport and logistics, finance, energy and other areas.The members of the friendship group, representing both chambers of the Federal Assembly of Switzerland, highly appreciated the Address of the Head of State and expressed hope for a discussion of ways to develop cooperation during the upcoming visit of the Swiss parliamentary delegation to Kazakhstan in October. The coordinator of the group, former Chairman of the Council of States Filippo Lombardi, on behalf of the Swiss parliamentarians, expressed confidence that the implementation of the set tasks will ensure Kazakhstan’s long-term resilience through technological progress, economic diversification, the use of human capital, and a progressive and open political system. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bern/press/news/details/1069096?lang=kk
Kazakh Flour Now on the Shelves of New York and Chicago 16.09.2025
New York, USA, September, 2025 – For the first time, Kazakh flour has entered the U.S. market and is now available on store shelves in New York and Chicago.To expand exports of Kazakhstan’s agribusiness products to the United States, Global New York Chamber of Commerce President Samat Umirzakov partnered with Salamat LLP (Kostanay) and the Consulate General of Kazakhstan in New York to bring Kazakh products to American consumers.Major U.S. retailers — including Walmart, Whole Foods, Amazon Prime, and others — now carry Kazakh flour.This initiative strengthens trade and economic ties between Kazakhstan and the United States and opens new opportunities for Kazakhstan’s agribusiness exports."Bringing Kazakh products to the U.S. market showcases the strong potential of our agribusiness sector. We are confident that the “Product of Kazakhstan” brand will resonate with American consumers who value quality and sustainability," said Samat Umirzakov.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-newyork/press/news/details/1069097?lang=kk
On holding open days in the state revenue departments of Zhambyl region, the main topic: innovations in the Tax Code from 2026 16.09.2025
An “Open Doors Day” event for taxpayers was held at the Department of State Revenues for the T,Ruskulov, Sarysy , Baizak and Talas Districts of the Zhambyl Region. During the event, the main amendments to the Tax Code, which will take effect in 2026, were discussed, and corresponding explanations were provided. A total of 52 individuals requested consultations as part of the campaign.Representatives of legal entities, individual entrepreneurs, private individuals, heads of farming enterprises, and accountants took part in the event. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the upcoming changes in tax legislation and ask their questions.During the event, such topics as the reduction of tax reporting forms, changes to special tax regimes, VAT reform, universal declaration, digitalization of tax administration, and other relevant issues were discussed.Thanks to the open dialogue, taxpayers received practical recommendations on preparing for the upcoming changes and discussed pressing issues. Department of Explanatory Work and Contact Center DGD in Zhambyl regionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhambyl/press/news/details/1124582?lang=kk
UGD field seminars on explaining the new Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan 16.09.2025
В рамках повышения налоговой грамотности 19.08.2025 года территориальным управлением государственных доходов по Нуринскому району проведена разъяснительная работа с налогоплательщиками торговых точек и массового скопления людей района по актуальным вопросам действующего, а так же нового Налогового кодекса вступающий в законную силу с 01.01.2026 года.В ходе мероприятия:даны разъяснения о требованиях обязательного применения ККМ и выдачи чека покупателю;представлены преимущества проекта «Salyq кэшбэк» и условия участия в нём;разъяснены основные изменения в новый Налоговый кодекс, в том числе в части новых специальных налоговых режимов, сокращения форм налоговой отчетности, порядка взыскания налоговой задолженности и т.д.,продавцам и покупателям были розданы информационные листовки.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-karaganda/press/news/details/1078485?lang=kk
The State Revenue Departments are continuing mass explanatory work to clarify the new Tax Code. 16.09.2025
As part of improving tax literacy, on 08/20/2025, the state revenue departments in Shakhtinsk, Bukhar-Zhyrau district, Kazybek bi district, Alikhan Bokeikhan district held seminars for taxpayers on topical issues of current legislation, as well as the new Tax Code, which comes into force on 01.01.2026.Thus, the UGD in the Kazybek bi district conducted explanations for individual entrepreneurs on the territory of the Altyn Arba city market.A seminar with taxpayers, as well as representatives of small and micro businesses, was held in Shakhtinsk with representatives of NCE Atameken.UGD in Bukhar-Zhyrau district held a meeting of residents in the building of the FOC of Gabiden Mustafin settlement.UGD in the Alikhan Bokeikhan district held a seminar for taxpayers in the office building.Such meetings help businesses to better understand tax legislation and fulfill their obligations in a timely manner.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-karaganda/press/news/details/1078469?lang=kk
Progress of Landscaping and Greening Projects in Kostanay City 16.09.2025
Today, Vice Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kuandyk Kazhkenov, paid a working visit to Kostanay as part of the comprehensive landscaping and greening program. During the visit, he inspected several city parks and waterfront areas.As part of infrastructure development, a dedicated pedestrian walkway was built under the central bridge, connecting both parts of the embankment into a single promenade. The total length of the waterfront now reaches 2.5 kilometers — from the “Shagaly” embankment to the Triathlon Park.In the Triathlon Park, 16 children’s and sports playgrounds have been installed. Works on utility networks, irrigation and lighting systems are nearing completion. By the end of October, construction of the entrance area, featuring a fountain and small architectural forms, will also be finalized.At the “Uly Dala” Park, a children’s playground has been built, football fields have been renovated, and the cascading fountain is undergoing reconstruction. New landscaping elements are being added, while an irrigation system has been installed to ensure sustainable green areas.This year, seven new recreational zones are being developed across Kostanay. These include a park on the campus of Kostanay Regional University named after Akhmet Baitursynov, as well as public spaces in the “Konay” neighborhood, near the railway station, along Kasymkhanov Street, Abai Street (near building 164), Baimagambetov Street (near building 164), Dulathov Street, and within the regional administration area.It should be noted that special attention in Kostanay is given to greening initiatives: all city parks are equipped with automatic irrigation systems, allowing for a consistent annual increase in green spaces.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1068999?lang=kk
On September 16, a meeting of the deputy faction at the Altai district maslikhat was held 16.09.2025
The agenda included the following issues:Discussion of the Address of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, titled "Kazakhstan in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Current Challenges and Their Solutions Through Digital Transformation."Implementation of the regional roadmap for 2023–2027 for the 3rd quarter of 2025.The meeting was attended by the Chairwoman of the Altai District Maslikhat, Larisa Alexandrovna Grechushnikova, and Deputy of the East Kazakhstan Regional Maslikhat, Igor Vladimirovich Mikhailenko.On the first agenda item, faction members held a comprehensive discussion of the President’s Address.On the second item, they heard a report from K.A. Zhuanganov, Head of the State Institution "Department of Housing and Communal Services, Passenger Transport, and Highways of the Altai District," as well as from T.N. Myslimova, Deputy Akim of the Altai District.Based on the results of the meeting, recommendations were made.Control over the implementation of the items in the Roadmap of the Party's Election Program has been assigned to the deputies of the Altai district and remains under constant supervision by the standing commissions of the Altai District Maslikhat and the Faction.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/altay-maslihat/press/news/details/1068993?lang=kk
Results of the EEC Council on September 12, 2025 16.09.2025
On September 12, the regular meeting of the Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) was held. The Council meeting considered current issues in the field of technical regulation.The EEC Council made changes to the Procedure for coordinating standardization work within the EAEUThe changes are of a targeted nature. In particular, when planning the development (amendments, revisions) of interstate standards, it is now possible to take into account the results of the mandatory periodic assessment of the scientific and technical level of the technical regulations of the EAEU that have entered into force and the lists of standards for them.The changes are also aimed at eliminating cases of duplication of GOST development in programs for the development of interstate standards for technical regulations of the EAEU.The changes will come into force 30 calendar days after publication.The EEC Council adopted amendments to the technical regulations for perfumery and cosmetic productsThe requirements for the composition of perfumery and cosmetic products have been clarified in terms of updating the lists of substances prohibited for use in such products, permitted for use taking into account the established restrictions, permitted dyes, preservatives and UV filters.The amendments will come into force 12 months after their official publication.A transition period is provided until January 1, 2027 for the standards related to formaldehyde:Currently, the labeling "contains formaldehyde" is required if its theoretical concentration exceeds 0.05%.From 2027, this threshold will be reduced to 0.001%. The words "contains formaldehyde" will need to be applied to the labeling if the theoretical concentration of formaldehyde exceeds 0.001%.Amendments to the technical regulations for light industry products have been adoptedThe document brings the schemes and procedures for certification and declaration of conformity into line with the standard schemes approved by Decision of the Council of the Commission No. 44, taking into account the practice of applying the said technical regulations. The possibility of using test reports for subsequent batches of similar products during the year is regulated, as well as the possibility of using test reports for materials and components during three years when assessing the conformity of serially produced products manufactured using these materials and components.The amendments guarantee the application of uniform conformity assessment procedures and the comparability of the results of the assessment carried out in each EAEU country.Thus, the systemic revision of conformity assessment procedures in the technical regulations of the Eurasian Economic Union continues.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1068935?lang=kk
On holding seminars with taxpayers in the Sarysu and Baizak districts of the Zhambyl region: on innovations in the Tax Code from 2026 16.09.2025
On September 15 and 16, 2025, as part of the media plan, the State Revenue Departments of the Sarysu and Baizak districts, with the participation of employees of the State Revenue Department of the Zhambyl region, held seminars for taxpayers in the district Akimats of the Sarysu and Baizak districts on key changes in the new Tax Code, which will come into force in 2026.The participants of the event - heads of organizations, individual entrepreneurs, individuals, heads of peasant farms, accountants - were able to learn about the upcoming innovations in tax legislation, as well as ask their questions. The number of seminar listeners in the Sarysu district was 42, in the Baizak district 160 people.During the seminar, the following issues were covered: reduction of tax reporting forms, changes in special tax regimes, VAT reform, universal declaration, digitalization of tax administration and other issues. Thanks to the open dialogue, taxpayers received practical recommendations on how to prepare for changes and discussed current issues.The next seminar is on September 17, 2025 in the Talas district of Karatau.Department of Explanatory Work and Contact Center DGD in Zhambyl regionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhambyl/press/news/details/1068906?lang=kk
Cadets of the Military Technical School became blood donors for the seriously ill 16.09.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1068909?lang=kk
Key Initiatives of the President’s State of the Nation Address Discussed in Tehran 16.09.2025
A roundtable discussion dedicated to the Address of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the people of Kazakhstan was held at the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Iran.The event was attended by representatives of the Iranian expert association and journalists from local media.Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Iran Ontalap Onalbayev touched upon the main directions of the Address of the Head of State “Kazakhstan in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Current Challenges and Their Solutions through Digital Transformation” and provided the participants with comprehensive information on the political, economic and social reforms being implemented in our country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-gorgan/press/news/details/1070334?lang=kk
Acceptance of applications for the Tuelsizdik Urpaktary grant has started in Almaty region 16.09.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1068897?lang=kk
Work continues in the Almaty region to eliminate the fire at the landfill of solid household waste 16.09.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1068854?lang=kk
Property tax: what is important to know and when to pay 16.09.2025
The State Revenue Department recalls that on October 1 of this year, the deadline for payment of property tax for 2024 by individuals who own real estate and land plots expires.The tax is calculated by the tax authorities on the basis of the value of taxable objects determined by the Government for Citizens State Corporation and the actual period of ownership of the property.Starting from October 2, 2025, notices of tax arrears of individuals will be sent to persons who have not paid the amount of tax on time.You can pay the tax through the mobile applications of e-Salyq Azamat and second-tier banks, the Electronic Government portal, in cash at second-tier bank branches or payment terminals, as well as using bank cards at ATMs and payment terminals.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-kostanay/press/news/details/1068840?lang=kk
Kazakhstan Expands Cooperation with International Telecommunication Union 16.09.2025
On September 5, 2025, in Geneva, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the World Trade Organization, Ambassador Kairat Torebayev, met with the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin.During the meeting, the Ambassador emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the ITU and invited Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin to personally take part in the international Digital Bridge 2025 forum, which will be held in Astana on October 2–4, 2025. The forum will serve as an important platform for discussing global challenges and opportunities in the field of digitalization, attracting investments, and developing technological ecosystems.The parties also discussed prospects for expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan and the ITU in the areas of digital development, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure. The Ambassador further noted Kazakhstan’s interest in participating in all major events of the organization, including at the regional level, and called on the ITU to use the Digital Bridge 2025 forum as a potential platform for discussing ITU initiatives.Secretary-General Ms. Bogdan-Martin highly appreciated Kazakhstan’s initiatives and expressed her readiness to continue further engagement on ITU-related issues.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-wto/press/news/details/1068805?lang=kk
WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement Enters into Force 16.09.2025
Geneva, 15 September 2025 – At the Special meeting of the WTO General Council, it was officially announced that the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies has entered into force. The final instruments of acceptance, ensuring the required threshold for entry into force, were deposited by Brazil, Kenya, Tonga and Viet Nam.The Agreement was adopted on 17 June 2022 at the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC12), held under the chairmanship of Kazakhstan. This is only the second new WTO agreement since the Organization was established, and the first since the Trade Facilitation Agreement, adopted in Bali in 2013 and entered into force in 2017.The Agreement prohibits subsidies contributing to illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, subsidies for the exploitation of overfished stocks, and subsidies for fishing in unregulated areas of the high seas. In doing so, it will help cut down on the USD 22 billion in harmful subsidies provided annually, thereby protecting marine ecosystems. Estimates show that IUU fishing accounts for up to 20% of global catch.According to WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies “is not only about preserving deteriorating fish stocks, but also about protecting the livelihoods and food security of millions of people. It is a response to challenges relating to global public goods, and a demonstration that the multilateral trading system is capable of delivering real results.”Kazakhstan ratified the Agreement on 19 June 2024, when President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the Law “On Ratification of the Protocol Amending the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization.”Kazakhstan’s Permanent Representative to the WTO, Kairat Torebayev, emphasized: “As the world’s largest landlocked country, strengthening the multilateral trading system is of special importance to Kazakhstan. We are proud that at MC12, chaired by our country, this historic decision was adopted. Today’s step confirms that the WTO can reach agreements of global significance. We will continue to support members’ efforts to conclude further negotiations and implement the commitments already achieved.”UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan conveyed a message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who congratulated the WTO on this important outcome and underlined that the entry into force of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies represents a vital contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, fully meeting SDG target 14.6 aimed at protecting the world’s oceans.Prime Ministers of Barbados, Chile, Iceland and Malaysia also delivered video messages, congratulating WTO members and highlighting the importance of this historic agreement for safeguarding oceans and strengthening a fair international trading system.Although the Agreement was ratified by two-thirds of members, it enters into force today for all WTO members. In case of a breach of its provisions by any member, disputes may be brought to the WTO Dispute Settlement Body.In addition, 17 countries have contributed a total of USD 18 million to the dedicated WTO Fisheries Fund, which will provide technical assistance and support to developing and least-developed countries in implementing the Agreement.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-wto/press/news/details/1068809?lang=kk
Transition to a Protocol for new data transmission on monetary settlements using the CRM with the function of recording and (or) transmitting data to the server of fiscal data operators version 2.0.3 16.09.2025
The Committee notifies that, according to the changes made to the procedure for CRM applying, the Committee has developed a new Protocol for data new data transmission on monetary settlements using the CRM with the function of recording and (or) transmitting data to the FDO server, version 2.0.3 (hereinafter - the Protocol version 2.0.3)Protocol version 2.0.3 was published on the official Internet resource of the Committee on June 20, 2025.Protocol version 2.0.3 provides a service for automatically connecting the CRM to the National Product Catalog and determining geolocation on the side of the FDO, which identifies the exact location of the CRM.In this regard, taxpayers who use CRM as hardware and software complexes need to reprogram the functions of their CRM s in accordance with Protocol version 2.0.3 by October 15, 2025.Taxpayers who use CRMs, which are electronic devices with the function of recording and (or) transmitting data, must reprogram them by November 15, 2025.To do this, it is necessary to contact the CRM developers and the CRM maintenance centers.Additionally, we inform you that Protocol version 2.0.2 FDO is scheduled to be disabled from November 17, 2025.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-vko/press/news/details/1068813?lang=kk
Harvesting operations are actively continuing in the Almaty region 16.09.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1068831?lang=kk