The Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan has submitted draft amendments to the Rules for the Provision of State Support Measures for Private Entrepreneurship to Domestic Trade Entities for public discussion. The document has been published on the "Open NPA" portal and is available for discussion until February 20 of this year.The draft was developed and is aimed at strengthening practical support for small businesses and stimulating the development of Kazakhstani production. The proposed amendments affect the terms of the state program and provide for stricter reciprocal obligations for recipients of state support measures, with an emphasis on protecting the interests of entrepreneurs.One of the key proposals is to limit increases in the rental cost of retail space for one year after the conclusion of agreements subsidizing a portion of the interest rate and guaranteeing loans for entities providing retail space for rent. This measure is particularly important for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as individual entrepreneurs operating from rented space. It ensures cost predictability, enables business planning, and reduces the risk of sudden and unjustified rent increases.The draft also provides for preferential placement of new Kazakhstani brands in retail space and on shelf space. This applies to products from manufacturers included in the Register of Kazakhstani Commodity Producers, upon their written request, for a period of three months or more. The proposed changes provide them with the necessary starting point and the opportunity to establish themselves in the market.Furthermore, when replenishing working capital, the Rules propose to establish a requirement to purchase goods, raw materials, and supplies from entrepreneurs included in the Register of Kazakhstani Commodity Producers. This decision is aimed at developing internal cooperation, supporting local supply chains, and reducing dependence on imports.Overall, the implementation of the proposed regulations demonstrates a systematic approach to solving small business problems and creates the conditions for long-term economic impact. An increase in the number of small producers, an expansion of the range of domestic goods, and the creation of new jobs are expected.Discussion of the draft will continue until February 20, and the Ministry of Trade and Integration invites all interested parties to participate in the discussion on the Open Regulatory Legal Acts portal.Link - https://legalacts.egov.kz/npa/view?id=15757905 Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1156418?lang=kk

On February 5 of this year, a working meeting was held with the participation of the Head of the Department of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Civil Service Affairs in the Kostanay Region, Y.A. Salykbayev, the Head of the Apparatus of the Akim of the Kostanay Region, M.M. Sandybayev, as well as heads and specialists of regional departments.In his speech, Y.A. Salykbayev highlighted the priorities announced by the Head of State at the National Kurultai in the city of Kyzylorda. The demand for integrity among officials remains a relevant nationwide task. This is a direct and unambiguous guideline for the entire civil service system — from top managers to every executor.The number of negative publications about the civil service in the media and social networks has noticeably increased, with criticism increasingly directed not only at rank-and-file employees but also at top managers. This is an alarming signal because society evaluates the state based on the behavior and decisions of specific officials.The speaker outlined the key risks that most often lead to scandals, disciplinary consequences, and reputational losses: declarations and financial control, conflict of interest, anti-corruption restrictions, family subordination, foreign accounts, gambling, and betting. The task is to build a system where violations are difficult to commit, and conscientious behavior is the norm.Y.A. Salykbayev also informed about upcoming changes for civil servants within the framework of the Concept for the Development of the Civil Service for 2024–2029.These include the digitalization of personnel processes and financial control. The law establishes two types of declarations and the publicity of declarations for certain categories of officials.It is important to comply with anti-corruption restrictions, including joint service (work) of close relatives, spouses, and in-laws if a subordinate relationship arises between them, as well as restrictions related to holding funds and valuables outside the Republic of Kazakhstan.M.M. Sandybayev drew the participants' attention to the call of the Head of State to all authorized state bodies — to review and synchronize their work in accordance with the ideological platform.In the context of societal transformation, the presence of effective feedback channels, including media and social media accounts, is important. The skill of managers lies in establishing communication with civil society and the media.The Ethics Commissioner, K.Zh. Syundikov, using practical case studies, informed about examples of non-compliance with ethical standards and the responsibility of civil servants.A separate issue raised at the meeting was the responsibility of employees for non-compliance with restrictions related to the ban on participation in gambling and/or betting, including through the use of telecommunications networks and the Internet to participate in bets and wagers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1156361?lang=kk

The eighth meeting of the Commission on Constitutional Reform was held in Astana, during which Deputy Prosecutor General of the Republic of Kazakhstan Zhandos Omiraliev proposed clarifying the understanding of Article 18 of the draft new Constitution in the Russian language. He particularly emphasized that every norm of the Constitution must be clear and understandable, and that the commission is doing tremendous work.State Advisor Erlan Karin focused on the fact that the text of the new Constitution is not a translation.–The draft of the new Constitution in the state language is not a translation. The draft currently in your hands is a document initially written with the interests of the state language in mind. In case of ambiguous questions, the version in the Kazakh language is primarily taken into account, – he said.The State Advisor also reported that outdated and words whose meaning has changed have been revised in the draft new Constitution.Rector of Karaganda University named after E. Buketov, Nurlan Dulatbekov, presented a proposal that the principles of access to higher education should be clearly outlined in the new Constitution. At the same time, he explained why it is necessary to separate educational institutions from religious ideology and what fundamental significance this has for the education system.– Universities and schools must remain spaces of science, knowledge, and, of course, academic freedom. This approach protects students, preserves a neutral educational environment, and reduces the risk of ideological pressure, – said the scholar.At the next meeting, Majilis deputy Aydarbek Kozhanazarov came forward with an initiative to clearly enshrine in the Constitution that «the national currency of Kazakhstan is the tenge». Chairman of the Board of M. Narikbayev KAZGUU University JSC, member of the Constitutional Commission Talgat Narikbayev focused on the commission's work to improve the text of the Basic Law in the Kazakh language.Chairman of the Constitutional Commission Elvira Azimova instructed to inform the public about the fate of proposals received from citizens regarding the new version of the Basic Law through a summary table.It is recalled that regional head Nurlibek Nalibayev, as a member of the Constitutional Commission, participates in the commission's meetings and discussions in separate working sections.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda/press/news/details/1156329?lang=kk

Within the framework of implementing the "Clean Kazakhstan" ecological culture development concept, a republican "Snow Landing" campaign was held in the Oktyabrskoye village of the city of Lisakovsk.The event involved students from the Lisakovsk Technical College, volunteers, activists of the Youth Resource Center, civil servants, as well as employees of the Lisakovsk City Emergency Department, with a total of about 30 people mobilized.During the campaign, participants assisted single-living pensioners by clearing snow from their yards and surrounding areas. Such initiatives are aimed at fostering ecological culture among the region's youth, developing the volunteer movement, and strengthening social responsibility.According to the organizers, the "Snow Landing" campaign not only improves the sanitary conditions of settlements during the winter season but also provides tangible support to citizens in vulnerable social categories.The mentioned campaigns will continue in the future within the framework of the "Clean Kazakhstan" concept.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1155362?lang=kk

Thirty-two commercial documents were signed on the sidelines of the business forum. The signed agreements are aimed at developing and deepening Kazakh-Pakistani cooperation in finance, logistics, industry, energy, agro-industrial complex, digital services, and infrastructure.The largest industrial agreement signed during the visit was a contract between Kazakhstan's Falcon EuroBus LLP and Pakistan's QCC International for the supply of domestically produced electric buses to Pakistan, valued at $108 million. This document is of strategic importance for promoting Kazakhstan's mechanical engineering and strengthening the "Made in Kazakhstan" brand in international markets, opening up additional opportunities for expanding the export portfolio and further localizing high-tech products.A significant set of agreements focused on launching joint investment mechanisms and developing a financial infrastructure for cooperation. Specifically, Samruk-Kazyna JSC and the Fauji Group of Companies agreed to create a joint investment platform for the selection and implementation of projects in Kazakhstan and Pakistan. JSC Baiterek Research Holding is expanding its partnership opportunities in project and trade finance through collaboration with Habib Bank Limited, and in the transport and logistics segment through cooperation with TCS Private Limited.Furthermore, Freedom Holding Corp. and JSC Freedom Bank Kazakhstan signed a number of agreements with their Pakistani partners. Specifically, an agreement was signed with Meezan Bank Limited to develop correspondent relations and international settlements worth USD 20 million, as well as agreements aimed at developing cross-border financial and digital services.A significant number of agreements relate to the transport and logistics sector. For example, JSC NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy and National Logistics Corporation agreed to cooperate in multimodal transportation and transit. JSC Kazposhta signed memorandums with Pakistan Post and TCS Private Limited, providing for the development of postal and logistics infrastructure and the implementation of digital solutions. Furthermore, the Aktau International Sea Trade Port and the Port of Karachi reached agreements on developing port logistics and expanding cooperation.Also, in the industrial sector, agreements were reached to establish a joint venture for sugar production in the Zhetysu region between KazFoodProducts and Almoiz Group with an investment of $20 million, and a memorandum was signed between Kusto Group and QazTrade to develop construction materials production worth $20 million.In the chemical and processing industries, agreements were signed between BARK Qazaqstan LLP and relevant Pakistani entities, as well as a memorandum on the launch of chemical production in the Kyzylorda region between NorSon Chemical Industries and the Baikonur Agricultural Production Cooperative.A separate set of agreements covers digital services, IT, and telecommunications. Astana Hub and IGNITE Pakistan signed a memorandum of cooperation on developing startup ecosystems, while QazCode and Jazz Pakistan agreed to collaborate in the telecommunications sector.Additional agreements were signed on digital solutions and artificial intelligence, as well as on the integration of payment services.In the educational and medical fields, memorandums were signed between Astana Medical University and Maroof International Hospital, as well as agreements between iTech KZ and Gift University, aimed at expanding cooperation.In the space industry, Kazakhstan Gharysh Sapary JSC and SUPARCO agreed on scientific and technical cooperation and the exchange of satellite data.Additionally, agreements were signed in the field of Islamic finance between Otbasy Bank and Meezan Bank Limited, as well as memorandums aimed at developing the agro-industrial complex and strengthening business ties between trade and industrial organizations of the two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1155035?lang=kk

Kazakhstan's Falcon EuroBus will supply 600 electric buses to Pakistan. Business representatives from both countries reached an agreement to this effect during the Kazakhstan-Pakistan Business Forum held in Islamabad.The first bus deliveries are scheduled to begin in April of this year. The total value of the commercial contract is $108 million. The company intends to increase bus exports to Pakistan to 2,000 units by 2027-2028.Falcon EuroBus, founded in Almaty in 2018, currently produces a wide range of buses that meet European quality standards. The plant's annual production capacity is 1,500 buses, and the company plans to increase output to 3,000 units. Kazakhstani electric buses are in high demand not only in neighboring countries such as Uzbekistan, Mongolia, and Pakistan, but also in European countries."We carry out the full bus production cycle." "Today's Kazakhstan-Pakistan Business Forum opened the door to a major market for us. Under the current agreement, we will supply 600 electric buses for passenger transportation. Furthermore, during B2B meetings, we held talks with representatives of the Pakistani Ministry of Education and agreed on the prospect of supplying 2,000 buses for school transportation," noted Murat Adilkhanov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Falcon EuroBus.Following the business forum, a commercial agreement is planned to be signed between Falcon EuroBus and the Pakistani company OGCC International, which specializes in the transportation sector.The Kazakhstan-Pakistan Business Forum is being held as part of the state visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1154610?lang=kk

Kazakhstan's exports to Pakistan demonstrated exponential growth in 2025 and became one of the most dynamic areas of foreign trade. From January to November 2025, trade turnover between the two countries reached $105.6 million, a 2.1-fold increase compared to the same period in 2024, when it stood at $48.7 million. The key driver of growth was the export component, which increased fivefold from $11.2 million to $56.4 million, significantly improving the trade balance.The increase in Kazakhstan's exports to Pakistan in 2025 is primarily due to the expansion of the product range and the commencement of shipments of a number of new items. Crude oil shipments, worth $52.9 million, contributed the most to this growth. Exports of agricultural and industrial products also increased significantly. Exports of legumes and vegetables reached $280,300, soldering equipment and machinery at $64,100, other office equipment at $48,100, plant-based weaving materials at $33,100, and auxiliary equipment for textile machinery at $22,500. Wheat shipments increased 4.6-fold to $55,100, reflecting the growing interest of the Pakistani market in Kazakhstan's agricultural products.Imports from Pakistan to Kazakhstan in January–November 2025 also showed positive dynamics, increasing by 19.9% ​​to $44.9 million. The main growth was attributed to food products and light industry products. Potato imports increased almost 94-fold to $9.28 million. Knitwear shipments increased significantly: imports of other knitwear increased more than 125-fold to $663,000, women's knitwear by 45.8% to $1.45 million, and tank tops and sweatshirts by 43.2% to $1.18 million.The results of mutual trade for January–November 2025 clearly demonstrate a qualitative shift in trade and economic relations between Kazakhstan and Pakistan. A five-fold increase in exports and an improved trade balance indicate the formation of a stable foundation for further expansion of supplies, deeper industrial and agricultural cooperation, and a strengthening of the position of Kazakh producers in the Pakistani market.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1154500?lang=kk

The Kazakhstan-Pakistan Business Forum has opened in Islamabad. The event is being held as part of the state visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The business forum aims to deepen trade, economic, investment, and industrial cooperation between the business communities of the two countries. The forum will be a key business platform for the visit and will facilitate direct dialogue between representatives of government agencies, the quasi-public sector, and businesses from Kazakhstan and Pakistan.The forum program includes a plenary session with the participation of heads of relevant agencies, national companies, financial institutions, and large private companies, B2B and B2C meetings, and a ceremony to exchange folders containing signed commercial documents.A total of 143 representatives from Kazakhstan are participating in the business forum, 24 of whom are from the quasi-public sector and 119 from the business community. From Pakistan, 180 companies are participating in the event.The forum is expected to sign agreements covering a wide range of cooperation areas, including the creation of joint investment platforms, the development of transport and logistics routes using Pakistan's port infrastructure, e-commerce and postal logistics, banking and Islamic finance, industrial cooperation, the production of electric buses, sugar, building materials, and paints and varnishes, as well as collaboration in IT, GovTech, the startup ecosystem, the textile industry, medicine, and the defense industry.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1154394?lang=kk

Last year, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Pakistan nearly doubled, reaching $105.6 million. The growth in mutual trade confirms the existence of strong preconditions for further expansion of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.In the medium term, the parties intend to increase bilateral trade turnover to $1 billion. This issue was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Arman Shakkaliyev, Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Jam Kamal Khan, Minister of Commerce of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, held in Islamabad.During the talks, the parties noted the need to move from isolated initiatives to a well-established mechanism for implementing agreements aimed at increasing mutual trade volumes. Arman Shakkaliyev proposed identifying specific economic sectors for increasing trade turnover, as well as measures and practical actions to achieve this.The implementation of this mechanism involves focusing on priority sectors with the greatest trade and economic potential, including agro-industrial complex and food products, chemical and petrochemical industries, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, and pharmaceuticals."To achieve the goal of increasing trade turnover to $1 billion, QazTrade and TDAP are designated as key operators for implementing these initiatives. This will ensure systematic business support, facilitate direct B2B contacts, and implement joint projects," noted Arman Shakkaliyev.In turn, the Minister of Commerce of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan supported the Kazakh initiative. "Pakistan attaches particular importance to developing trade relations with Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan is not only the largest economy in Central Asia, but also Pakistan's largest export market in the region," noted Jam Kamal Khan.Following the meeting, a protocol was signed, setting QazTrade and TDAP the tasks for implementing the agreements reached.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1154413?lang=kk

Active work is underway in the Kostanay region in the field of digital development and the implementation of artificial intelligence. At a meeting with the participation of the head of the region, Kumar Aksakalov, key priorities for further steps were outlined, aimed at transitioning from individual digital solutions to comprehensive digital transformation focused on the regional economy, the efficiency of public administration, and the needs of residents.The year 2026, declared by the Head of State as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, is seen as an important stage in the transition to data-driven management and the practical application of AI. The main emphasis is on the digitalization of the real sector of the economy – industry, agriculture, housing and communal services, energy, transport and logistics, as well as the social sphere – healthcare and education. The main goal is to ensure economic growth through the introduction of digital technologies and the transition to a unified regional digital ecosystem.«In 2025, 101 industrial robots were installed at automobile plants, mining and engineering enterprises in the region, and 145 robots are now in operation. Antenna-mast structures have been installed in 44 settlements. About 14 thousand rural residents have gained access to 4G mobile internet. Over the past 3 years, we have managed to provide all 440 schools with high-speed internet. According to the results of the 2025 public monitoring, the Kostanay region took third place, and in the provision of services in electronic form – second place», – noted the akim of the Kostanay region, Kumar Aksakalov.Today, a sustainable IT ecosystem is being formed in the region. About 340 IT companies are already operating in the region. According to the results of 2025, tax revenues from their activities amounted to about 650 million tenge, which is 30% more than the previous year. At the same time, the export of IT services is growing – regional companies are entering foreign markets with their own digital products and solutions.Systematic work on the development of digital infrastructure continues. The provision of rural settlements with quality 4G internet shows a steady positive trend: if in 2022 this figure was 60%, then in 2025 it reached 76%.The digital divide in education has been significantly reduced: if in 2022 only 88 schools (19.4%) had internet with a speed of over 20 Mbps, then in 2025 high-speed internet has been provided to all 440 schools.In collaboration with the A. Baitursynuly Regional University, work on opening the Tomorrow School International School of Artificial Intelligence (France) will be completed within a month.Special attention is paid to the integration of information systems. In 2026, their consolidation and transfer to a single platform with integration into the national big data system is planned. This will create conditions for the broader application of analytics and artificial intelligence in management.In the field of public services, the Kostanay region holds leading positions: first place in online monitoring, second place in the country in the quality of electronic services, and third place in the overall rating based on the results of two studies. The level of public satisfaction remains high. In the future, it is planned to transfer at least 80% of in-demand services to a proactive and mobile format using AI.Digitalization is becoming an important tool for increasing management efficiency, developing the economy, and improving the quality of life of the region's population.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1153871?lang=kk

Under the chairmanship of the Akim of the Kostanay region, Kumar Aksakalov, a meeting of the regional aktiv was held to discuss the draft of the country's new Constitution. The event was attended by the chairman of the regional maslikhat, heads of regional departments, territorial departments, representatives of law enforcement and special state bodies, as well as media representatives.At the V meeting of the National Kurultai, the Head of State presented his vision of the key directions of the constitutional reform.The head of the region noted that this constitutional reform is a strategic ideological step that defines the model of Kazakhstan's future development and specifies the value orientations of society.«The draft of the basic law was developed for almost six months, taking into account modern social demands and real changes occurring in the country. Conceptual changes to the Constitution are, first and foremost, aimed at strengthening the human-centricity of the state, reflecting the current values and principles of the people of Kazakhstan, as well as increasing the efficiency of the structure of the republic's political institutions.In the new Preamble, for the first time, human rights and freedoms are proclaimed as the state's main priority, and the principles of respect for the individual, responsibility, and justice are consolidated. The principle of “Human – not for the state, but the state – for the human” becomes the core of all state policy. This is a new social contract based on social justice, equal opportunities, and equality before the law», – noted the Akim of the Kostanay region.The “Law and Order” ideology initiated by the President and its consolidation in the Constitution in the form of specific norms create a solid foundation for ensuring order and stability in society. Respect for the law, a sense of responsibility, and the principle of zero tolerance for offenses are the main conditions for developing a strong and safe state.The new Constitution clearly outlines the idea of a harmonious combination of preserving national identity and modern values. Unity, harmony, and tolerance are recognized as key advantages of the multi-ethnic Kazakhstani society and are fixed as the unshakable foundation of statehood.The Akim of the Kostanay region noted that conveying the meaning and significance of the changes provided for by the draft of the new Constitution to every resident of the region and conducting explanatory work is a common task. At the same time, he emphasized his firm conviction that this reform represents an important and large-scale initiative aimed at ensuring a bright future for the country, strengthening public stability, and establishing the principles of justice.The Chairman of the Kostanay regional maslikhat, Saylaubek Yeshchanov, in turn, emphasized that this reform fully meets the modern demands and requirements of society, forming a new model of state and social structure.«The draft Constitution is not limited to just updating the current text but forms a new legal, institutional, and social architecture of the state. It is oriented toward modern challenges, aimed at strengthening human rights and freedoms, expanding the role of civil society, and increasing the stability of the political system», — noted Saylaubek Yeshchanov.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1153131?lang=kk

In connection with the widespread media coverage of the use of a clearing mechanism in exchange trading, the Ministry of Trade and Integration reports the following. Clearing activities are provided for by the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan on commodity exchanges and have been a mandatory element of the exchange settlement system throughout the entire period of operation of commodity exchanges.In accordance with Article 17 of the Law "On Commodity Exchanges," the commodity exchange clearing center carries out clearing activities for exchange transactions, including collecting and processing information on concluded transactions, recording and confirming their terms, determining the obligations of the parties, and organizing settlements.The use of a clearing mechanism ensures the guaranteed fulfillment of obligations under an exchange transaction by both the buyer (in terms of timely and full payment for the goods) and the seller (in terms of proper and confirmed delivery of the goods), which is a prerequisite for the transparent and stable functioning of an organized commodity market.At the same time, the provisions of the Law of December 30, 2024, on Exchange Trading, entered into force on January 1, 2026. These provisions establish a comprehensive regulatory regime for clearing activities, including mandatory licensing, state oversight by the Antimonopoly Authority, and requirements for classifying clearing organizations as subjects of financial monitoring and oversight by the Financial Monitoring Agency.In this regard, Clause 75-1 of the Exchange Trading Rules, which entered into force on January 1, 2026, was adopted to align the Exchange Trading Rules with the provisions of the Law of December 30, 2024, on Exchange Trading. This amendment aims to clarify the settlement procedure for exchange transactions, taking into account the introduction of updated regulatory requirements for clearing activities, increasing the transparency of the organized commodity market, monitoring cash flows, and ensuring the guaranteed fulfillment of exchange obligations.However, the use of a clearing mechanism for settlements on exchange transactions is not a new or additional requirement introduced on January 1, 2026.According to Article 17 of the Law "On Commodity Exchanges," the funds of exchange trading participants are separately accounted for by the clearing center, stored in separate bank accounts, and used exclusively for settlements on specific exchange transactions, ensuring the transparency of cash flow and their intended purpose.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1151694?lang=kk

The "Zhas Koldaushi" youth forum was held in Kostanay, with the participation of regional akim Kumar Aksakalov.The regional governor reported that 6,859 crimes were registered in the region in 2022. Over the past three years, comprehensive efforts have been made to strengthen the region's residents, including young people,'s commitment to law enforcement. Thanks to these systematic efforts, the overall crime rate has decreased by 28.2%."This positive result was also significantly influenced by effective social support measures for young people. In Kostanay, 55-60% of young people work in factories and industrial enterprises that have opened in accordance with modern requirements! Thanks to the "Kostanay Young Families" program, 344 families were able to celebrate housewarmings. This year, 60 young families will also receive new housing. Over the past three years, 27 educational, 35 sports, 37 medical, and 6 cultural facilities have been opened for residents of the region. "We will continue this work in the future," said the regional akim.Today, we can proudly state that the region's youth is achieving success both nationally and internationally."Today, the youth of the region is achieving success, and the youth of the region are achieving success" – this wisdom profoundly captures the meaning of the task before us. Only through civic engagement and joint efforts can we transform the Kostanay region into a safe, stable, and developing region. As the President of the country said, we will continue to build a harmonious, just, and stable society. Order and justice are the foundation of a secure future. And a safe society is our common goal!" emphasized Kumar Aksakalov, akim of the Kostanay region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1151611?lang=kk

On the instruction of the Head of State, a large-scale modernization of the system for combating natural fires and updating the material and technical base of the forestry sector is being carried out.The Akim (Governor) of the Kostanay region, Kumar Aksakalov, handed over specialized firefighting equipment in the amount of 79 units to the region's forestry institutions. Thirty-six forest fire complexes, 17 tractors, and 26 patrol cars have been transferred to the disposal of the forestry institutions. The received equipment will significantly increase the speed of response to fire outbreaks and strengthen preventive work during the fire-dangerous period."Over the past three years, 8 billion tenge has been allocated for equipping forestry institutions. During this period, 26 fire trucks, 86 tractors, 39 small forest fire complexes, and 78 units of motor vehicles were purchased. This year, the delivery of another 25 fire trucks and 9 tractors is expected, which will further strengthen the material and technical base of the industry," noted the Akim of the Kostanay region.Along with the renewal of equipment, work is underway in the region to strengthen personnel potential. The staff of the forest guard has been increased by one and a half times, and the wages of employees have been increased by 100 percent, which contributes to increasing motivation and the stability of the forest protection system."Today we received 17 units of specialized equipment. This is a major contribution to the development of the material and technical base of forestry institutions. This equipment directly strengthens the material and technical base of forestry institutions and, most importantly, increases the level of fire safety for our employees and settlements," – shared her impressions Valentina Andreychuk, Deputy Head of the KGU "Uzunkol Forestry Institution".The Akim of the Kostanay region noted that the work to update the material and technical base will continue in the future – both in terms of updating equipment and in matters of personnel training, digitalization, and fire prevention.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1151517?lang=kk

On January 28, 2026, a meeting of the Situation Headquarters for Domestic Market Protection, chaired by Aidar Akhmetbekovich Abildabekov, Vice Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was held. The meeting focused on supporting domestic dairy producers.The meeting addressed issues of state support for the dairy industry, ensuring the availability of domestic dairy products in retail chains, the level of trade margins, and combating counterfeit products.Representatives of domestic producers, including the Meat and Dairy Union of Kazakhstan, the Zenchenko and K Limited Liability Company, and the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, identified challenges related to communicating state support measures to producers, compliance with shelf space allocation requirements, and the actual level of trade margins in retail.Following the discussion, the Vice Minister instructed the Trade Committee, in conjunction with domestic producers, to study the pricing situation for dairy products and submit corresponding proposals.Special attention was given to the issue of the import and sale of counterfeit dairy products, raised by the Association of Milk and Dairy Producers of the Aktobe Region.In this regard, a decision was made to establish a regional interdepartmental working group in the Aktobe Region, with representatives of authorized government agencies and local executive bodies, to comprehensively study and develop measures to address these issues.Following the meeting, relevant departments were instructed to document the decisions and recommendations made for further systematic work to protect domestic producers and develop the domestic market.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1150571?lang=kk

A record-breaking package of export and investment documents worth $335.4 million was signed at the Gulfood 2026 international exhibition in Dubai. The agreements were reached during a roundtable discussion organized by the QazTrade trade policy development center and became one of the key practical outcomes of Kazakhstan's participation in the world's largest food industry exhibition.The event was attended by over 35 representatives of Kazakhstani businesses and over 50 foreign companies and organizations from the UAE, the Gulf states, Turkey, China, and other markets. The roundtable brought together producers, traders, distributors, representatives of chain retailers, HoReCa, and investment structures, and was focused on concluding specific commercial agreements.A total of 19 documents were signed or announced, covering the export of grain, highly processed grain products, oil and fat products, confectionery, legumes, and rice, as well as the distribution of Kazakhstani food products in the UAE market. The largest agreements relate to the supply of grain crops. Cooperation agreements for the export of up to 800,000 tons of grain with partners from the UAE and Oman, worth over $240 million, have been established. Separate contracts cover the supply of durum wheat, feed flour, legumes, and rice, as well as the development of distribution channels through local retail chains and specialized distributors. A number of memorandums are aimed at creating a sustainable infrastructure for the presence of Kazakhstani companies in the region, ranging from logistics and service solutions to the promotion of high-value-added products.The roundtable, organized by QazTrade, served as a working platform for substantive dialogue between producers and foreign partners. Discussions focused on the transition from one-time deliveries to long-term contracts, GCC market requirements for quality and certification, logistics, and the development of direct B2B supply chains without intermediaries.The business program also included a working meeting between Arman Shakkaliyev, Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the management of LuLu Group International, one of the largest retail chains in the Middle East and Asia.The parties discussed expanding the presence of Kazakh goods in the LuLu retail chain, developing direct contracts with domestic producers, and increasing the supply of high-value-added products. Special attention was paid to investment opportunities, including the development of logistics and warehousing infrastructure in Kazakhstan, packaging and pre-sale preparation projects, and the development of long-term purchasing programs for export markets.The signed agreements and negotiations take place against the backdrop of Kazakhstan's first-ever participation in Gulfood with a single National Pavilion. The exhibition, held in Dubai from January 26 to 30, is a key global platform for the international trade of food and beverage products. For Kazakhstani companies, participation in Gulfood 2026 has become more than just a showcase, but a practical tool for entering the markets of the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, where export intentions are transformed into specific contracts and long-term partnerships.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1150553?lang=kk

The implementation and widespread promotion of the "Adal Azamat" (Honest Citizen), "Law and Order", and "Taza Kazakhstan" (Clean Kazakhstan) initiatives among student youth are defined as one of the key directions for the upcoming period. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing the legal culture of youth, strengthening civic position, and forming the values of honest work and responsibility to society.There are 33 organizations of technical, vocational, and post-secondary education operating in the Kostanay region. Approximately 22 thousand students are enrolled in these educational institutions, which indicates the significant role of the TVET system in shaping the region's human resource potential.In the 2025–2026 academic year, educational work in colleges is focused on fostering diligence, professionalism, patriotism, civic responsibility, and respect for the law. Within the framework of the "Law and Order" project, more than 120 preventive and educational events have been conducted, reaching over 5 thousand students. In the first half of the year, special attention was paid to case coworking sessions with criminologists, meetings of discussion clubs, bullying prevention trainings, and dialogue platforms in the format of open discussions.Alongside educational work, the system of extracurricular student engagement is actively developing. There are 230 interest-based clubs operating in the region's colleges, involving more than 6 thousand students. In addition to traditional areas, modern and innovative formats such as robotics and 3D modeling are being actively introduced.The debate movement plays an important role in developing leadership qualities, communication skills, and critical thinking. The "Ushqyr Oi Alanı" (Rapid Thought Arena) debate clubs operate in all colleges of the region and unite approximately 900 participants.Among the significant events planned for 2026 are the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Studentvision creative project, as well as the holding of three international student conferences aimed at expanding academic and professional interaction.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1150276?lang=kk

Amid the active development of industry and agriculture, the volume of cargo transportation in the region, including container shipments, has been increasing annually. At the same time, the region faces a shortage of containers, while the capacity of the existing freight station in Kostanay remains limited.Grain and flour transportation remains especially relevant. In September–November 2025, 1.1 million tons of grain were exported from the region — 306 thousand tons more than in the same period last year. The main volume of supplies was directed to Uzbekistan.An international transport and logistics complex “Tobyl” is under construction in Kostanay. The dry port, with a capacity of up to 400 thousand containers per year, will increase cargo transportation volumes by 20%, attract KZT 63.8 billion in investments, and create 500 new jobs, becoming an important driver of export growth in the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1149181?lang=kk

The education system of Kostanay region is developing in several main directions using modern approaches.Thus, one of the most important priorities remains the creation of comfortable conditions for students to study both in the cities and in the villages of the region.Over the past two years, 7 new schools with 4,860 places have been built and put into operation in Kostanay region. Schools fully comply with modern standards and requirements, 5 of them were opened within the framework of the Keleshek Mektepteri National Project (within the framework of the Keleshek Mektepteri National Project: in the village of Zarechnoye, Kostanay region, for 900 places, in Arkalyk for 300 places, in Kostanay: mdr.Bereke with 1,200 seats and an Airport with 900 seats, in the village of Kushmurun in the Auliekolsky district with 1,200 seats, a school in the village of Kolkamys in the Dzhangeldy district with 60 seats, a school in Rudny with 1,200 seats).These are modern schools with innovative equipment in the spirit of global trends, thoughtful equipment and design. Each of them is equipped with subject rooms and laboratories, they create the best conditions for the development of our students' talents and research ideas. There are also 4 schools with 2,880 places (in the village of Enbek, Kostanay district, with 100 places, in the city of Kostanay in the MCRN. Bereke for 980 seats, in the MKRN. Kunai for 900 places in Rudny for 900 places) construction work is nearing completion. In the year of digitalization and artificial intelligence, announced by the Head of State, a lot of work is being done on IT projects.So, in 7 schools, with the support of Astana Hub, teachers and students began to learn programming. In the framework of cooperation with LLP "eData.kz " 60 schools in the region have gained access to modern digital services (Canva, Quizizz, Google, BookR), providing personalized preparation for national exams and international studies using AI.In order to reduce the gap in the quality of knowledge between the city and the countryside, a project is being implemented to develop the potential of small schools. It includes teacher training, mentoring, experience exchange and the introduction of modern approaches, with an emphasis on strengthening the professional competencies of teachers in conditions of limited resources using AI. 63 small-scale and 21 fully equipped schools participate in this project.Also, the region has developed a stable potential and accumulated practical experience in the development of IT-related areas in education. On behalf of the President, all teachers took free courses on the "Orleu" platform "Educational process and AI: generative models and the art of industrial engineering", as well as online courses on AI - "Ustazga AI".To date, 5 pilot projects on the implementation of AI solutions are being implemented, as well as 1 pilot project on robotics.The first of them uses artificial intelligence to learn Kazakh in schools with Russian as the language of instruction. The second project implements a comprehensive training system for point diagnosis and elimination of knowledge gaps Tester.kz ..The Al Mektep project, together with Kazaktelecom JSC, promotes the use of AI to ensure safe conditions in educational institutions.The fourth is the use of artificial intelligence to learn English at the Moscow School of Economics.The SmartBolashaq project is aimed at career guidance using AI.The Artisan Education project develops engineering thinking through an educational platform and robotics equipment.The Bolashak Mamandary career guidance platform for career guidance using AI will be launched in 2026.The platform will allow students to consciously determine their future professional path based on their individual interests and abilities, and the results of the testing will serve as a basis for further implementation in schools in the region. Since the new school year, educational work has been carried out under the "Adal Azamat" program. According to the Head of State, working with parents plays an important role in the formation of the school-family-society triad: there are 399 Educational Support Centers.The field of technical and vocational education is developing in a practice-oriented direction in close cooperation with social partners - leading enterprises of the region. The Year of Working Professions gave a great impetus to the development of the VET system. The number of enterprises providing patronage to colleges has increased from 38 to 230, which indicates the growing interest of businesses in training qualified workers.60 specialized classes have been opened in the region's schools, creating conditions for conscious professional self-determination and preparation for further college education.The number of students enrolled in targeted training at the request of enterprises has increased more than fivefold: from 687 people to 3,553. Of particular importance is the expansion of the network of social partners from 42 to 220.Thus, new approaches in education in Kostanay region are aimed at creating conditions for improving the quality of education, introducing artificial intelligence into the learning process at all levels and developing interaction with modern industries to train competitive and in-demand specialists in the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1147985?lang=kk

As part of the implementation of the National Product Catalog, the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Kazakhtelecom JSC, held expanded working meetings with business representatives in December 2025 at the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. During the discussions, a wide range of issues related to product registration, post terminals, system integration, and other topics were discussed. Comprehensive clarifications were provided, and an approach for further work on the implementation of the National Product Catalog was defined.Following the agreements reached, the Ministry, together with the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs, signed a memorandum on the phased implementation of the National Product Catalog. This memorandum establishes a coordinated approach between government agencies and the community to implementing the requirements of the National Product Catalog, taking into account market readiness, government services, and information systems.This memorandum stipulates that, starting January 1, 2026, administrative penalties will no longer be applied, and businesses will continue to operate without restrictions. This was done to allay business concerns and complete the pilot operation of the state database of the National Product Catalog.Furthermore, this memorandum establishes a phased introduction of requirements in 2026 for importers, domestic producers, retail chains, and small and micro businesses, including convenience stores. Transitional deadlines for implementing the requirements of the National Product Catalog are established by the Memorandum for the following categories of market participants:– Importers and domestic producers – until March 1, 2026;– Retail chains – until April 1, 2026;– Small and micro businesses, including convenience stores – until July 1, 2026.This approach ensures the timely adaptation of business processes and minimizes the risk of disruptions associated with the simultaneous introduction of requirements for all market participants.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1147763?lang=kk