Law
Kazakhstan and South Korea Discussed Opportunities for Implementing Leading Digital Health Practices 18.05.2026
Gabidulla Ospankulov, Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, held a meeting with representatives of St. Mary's International Hospital and the South Korean companies Waycen and Meninblox.During the meeting, innovative solutions in healthcare digitalization were discussed, using the example of the hospital, which combines a regional emergency medical center, hospice and palliative care, and comprehensive care through automation and robotics of medical services.The parties discussed the prospects and opportunities for implementing leading digital medical practices in Kazakhstan, particularly at medical institutions in the West Kazakhstan region.Gabidulla Ospankulov discussed government support measures, tax incentives, and the advantages of the country's investment climate.The participants also discussed the implementation of an investment project to build a multidisciplinary clinic.Waycen, a South Korean medical artificial intelligence (AI MedTech) company, specializes in developing AI solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of oncological diseases, as well as precision medicine platforms for all stages of cancer treatment.Meninblox develops large language models (LLM) for medicine and AI solutions to improve the efficiency of medical services.The company's key product is the MediKoGPT platform, a specialized medical language model trained on verified medical data. Using this platform, the company develops AI assistants and digital services to optimize communication between doctors, patients, and medical institutions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1222908?lang=kk
В Сенате обсудили проактивную экономическую политику и новые инвестиционные возможности Казахстана 18.05.2026
Сегодня в Сенате Парламента РК состоялся Правительственный час на тему «Финансирование роста экономики в 2026 году».С основным докладом выступил вице-министр национальной экономики Арман Касенов, презентовавший доклад с текущей ситуацией в экономике и подходами проактивной экономической политики, нацеленную на достижение к 2029 году ВВП в размере 450 млрд долларов США.В ходе выступления вице-министр отметил, что в последние три года реальный рост ВВП Казахстана стабильно превышает 5%, опережая среднемировые показатели более чем в 1,5 раза.«Для сохранения набранной динамики главным драйвером должно стать форсированное привлечение инвестиций. Согласно данным Всемирного банка, Казахстан уже опережает большинство стран мира по уровню инвестиционной активности, но для качественного рывка мы ставим задачу увеличить долю инвестиций в основной капитал с нынешних 14% до 23% к 2029 году, сформировав дополнительный приток в размере около 85 млрд долларов», - добавил Арман Касенов.Презентовано видение по реализации проактивной экономической стратегия, базирующейся на трех ключевых «столпах»: точечном анализе и определении высокопродуктивных ниш, адресном привлечении ведущих мировых компаний и готовности государства предоставить масштабное финансирование.Министерством отмечено о приоритетности реализации кластеров с высоким экспортным потенциалом, включая медную и алюминиевую промышленность, где объем новых перспективных проектов оценивается более чем в 10–12 млрд долларов. Наряду с металлургией колоссальный мультипликативный эффект ожидается от глубокой переработки продукции АПК (потенциал свыше 5 млрд долларов), яркими примерами которой выступают запуск завода инвестора Dalian Hesheng в Акмолинской области проект компанииFufeng в Жамбылской области.Параллельно с развитием экспорта сформированы пулы проектов в сфере импортозамещения, включая проекты в АПК на сумму более 4 трлн тенге, а также ниши в производстве сахара, мясной продукции и строительстве теплиц. Чтобы активно вовлечь бизнес в эти направления, с марта текущего года уже направлены официальные приглашения и готовые кейсы нескольким сотням ведущих мировых корпораций.Реализация данных индустриальных проектов призвана ускорить диверсификацию экономики, в результате которой доля нефтедобычи в ВВП страны уже снизилась более чем в два раза - с 16,5% в 2010 году до 8,1% в 2024 году.Учитывая масштаб стоящих задач, Правительство уже приняло комплекс мер по повышению доступности финансирования для бизнеса, включая дифференцированное снижение ставки КПН для банков, снижение требований по собственному участию заемщиков до 20%, а также запуск механизмов гарантирования крупных кредитов и расширение поддержки МСБ через фонд «Даму».Для обеспечения ликвидности самих институтов развития запущена трехлетняя программа ежегодной капитализации холдинга «Байтерек» по 1 трлн тенге, что за счет рыночного плеча позволит направлять в экономику до 8 трлн тенге ежегодно (около 40 трлн тенге за 5 лет). Дополнительно министерство ожидает зеркальной активизации со стороны коммерческих банков, потенциал кредитования бизнеса которых оценивается еще в 15–20 трлн тенге.В завершение доклада было отмечено, что весь этот комплекс синергетических мер призван обеспечить появление перспективных проектов в приоритетных секторах, рост инвестиционной активности, увеличение доступности кредитов и дальнейшие высокие темпы экономического роста. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1222903?lang=kk
Kazakhstan increased its foreign trade turnover to USD 32.9 billion in the first quarter of 2026 18.05.2026
Kazakhstan concluded the first quarter of 2026 with a confident strengthening of its foreign trade positions. Against the backdrop of sustained high business activity and expanding export potential, the country's trade turnover reached USD 32.9 billion, an increase of 10.5% compared to the same period last year, when the figure was USD 29.8 billion. This dynamic confirms the resilience of the foreign economic sector and the gradual strengthening of the role of high value-added products in the structure of Kazakh exports.The total export volume for January–March 2026 grew by 9.4%, amounting to USD 18.0 billion. Kazakhstan's imports for the reporting period amounted to USD 14.9 billion, an increase of 11.8% compared to the first quarter of 2025. The growth in imports is primarily related to increased purchases of investment and technological goods necessary for the modernization of the country's industry, energy, and transport infrastructure. The most notable growth was in electricity generator sets, whose imports increased more than fivefold, reaching USD 416.8 million. Imports of gas turbines and aircraft engines, petroleum products, railway locomotives, as well as equipment for processing and sorting raw materials also grew significantly. This import structure indicates sustained high investment demand in the economy and the active implementation of infrastructure and industrial projects.The dynamics of the non-resource sector deserve special attention. Kazakhstan's foreign trade turnover in non-resource goods for January–March 2026 reached USD 20.4 billion, which is 13.5% higher than last year's level. Non-resource exports grew immediately by 23.4%, amounting to USD 6.9 billion, becoming one of the main factors in the qualitative change in the structure of the country's foreign trade.The main drivers of non-resource exports were copper and copper cathodes, silver, uranium, ferroalloys, animal feed products, and sunflower oil. Sunflower oil exports increased by almost 60%, reaching USD 277.8 million, reflecting the growing competitiveness of Kazakh processed agricultural products. A 20.1% increase in ferroalloy supplies further confirms the strengthening of the metallurgical complex and the expansion of the export geography of domestic industrial products.The geography of Kazakhstan's foreign trade remains stably diversified. The country's largest trading partner at the end of the first quarter was China, with a trade turnover of USD 7.8 billion and a share of 23.8% of the total foreign trade volume. Russia retained second place with a trade volume of USD 6.5 billion, remaining a key market for imports and industrial cooperation. Italy, Turkey, and Uzbekistan also entered the list of largest partners. The strengthening of Kazakhstan's export positions in the European direction is particularly noteworthy: trade turnover with Italy exceeded USD 3.4 billion, with the volume of Kazakh exports amounting to over USD 3 billion.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1222494?lang=kk
More than 50 thousand exhibits: museums of the Ministry of Defense introduce visitors to the military history of the country 18.05.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1222456?lang=kk
The Defense Ministry board discussed the combat readiness of troops and their technological re-equipment. 18.05.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1222188?lang=kk
KazanForum 2026: Kazakhstan Strengthens Cooperation in Trade, Investment, and the Halal Industry 16.05.2026
On May 14-15, 2026, Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Shakkaliyev visited the city of Kazan (Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation), where he participated in the XVII International Economic Forum "Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum 2026". The Kazakh delegation also included First Vice-Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan Aizhan Bizhanova, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Kazan Yerlan Iskakov, representatives of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and other government agencies. Within the framework of the forum, a number of bilateral meetings and business events were held, aimed at strengthening trade, economic, investment, and interregional cooperation between Kazakhstan and the regions of the Russian Federation and the countries of the Islamic world. During the visit, A. Shakkaliyev held meetings with Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan R. Minnikhanov, Chairman of the Government of the Republic of Mordovia B. Emeyev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Chuvash Republic S. Artamonov, as well as representatives of business circles. The parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of investment interaction and the expansion of interregional ties between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation.The Minister also visited the international real estate exhibition and conference "International Property Market" and participated in the plenary session "Artificial Intelligence – New Efficiency in the Construction Industry", where issues of implementing digital solutions, modern technologies, and increasing the efficiency of the construction industry were considered. Special attention within the forum was given to the development of the Islamic economy and the Halal industry. Kazakhstan confirmed its interest in expanding the presence of domestic Halal products in foreign markets, developing relevant infrastructure, standardization, and strengthening cooperation with the countries of the Islamic world. It was noted that Kazakhstan considers the Halal industry as one of the promising areas for the development of non-resource exports and attracting investments. During his stay in Kazan, A. Shakkaliyev also gave interviews to the news agencies ITAR-TASS, "Khabar", and "Kazinform", in which he emphasized the importance of further strengthening trade and economic cooperation, developing investment interaction, and expanding interregional ties between Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation.The participation of the Kazakh delegation in KazanForum 2026 contributed to the expansion of business contacts, the promotion of Kazakhstan's economic potential, as well as the strengthening of practical cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, the Halal industry, digitalization, logistics, and industry. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1221631?lang=kk
In Uralsk, 28 schoolchildren joined the ranks of the young paratroopers 16.05.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1221730?lang=kk
Парламент одобрил в первом чтении конституционные законопроекты о статусе столицы и административно-территориальном устройстве РК 15.05.2026
На совместном заседании палат Парламента депутаты одобрили в первом чтении проекты Конституционных законов «О статусе столицы РК» и «Об административно-территориальном устройстве Республики Казахстан» и др. Законопроекты представил вице-министр национальной экономики Бауыржан Омарбеков.По его словам, законопроект «О статусе столицы РК» позволит закрепить особую роль столицы как политического, административного и экономического центра страны. Основными задачами документа являются определение особого статуса столицы, повышение эффективности государственного управления, а также формирование комфортной и безопасной городской среды для жителей.Документ предусматривает уточнение и систематизацию полномочий маслихата и акимата столицы. В частности, им передаются ключевые компетенции в сферах архитектуры и градостроительства, организации дорожного движения, социальной защиты населения, экологии, туризма и управления коммунальной собственностью. При этом за маслихатом и акиматом сохраняются полномочия, предусмотренные иными отраслевыми законами.Также законопроектом предусматривается, что границы и размеры пригородной зоны столицы, а также порядок ее использования будут определяться Правительством на основании совместного предложения маслихатов и акиматов города и области.Отдельным блоком закрепляется правовой статус организаций, участвующих в социально-экономическом развитии столицы, обеспечении жизнедеятельности города, санитарной очистке дорог, развитии туризма и регулировании земельных отношений.Кроме того, в первом чтении был одобрен проект Конституционного закона «Об административно-территориальном устройстве Республики Казахстан».Вице-министр национальной экономики Бауыржан Омарбеков отметил, что в рамках проводимой конституционной реформы особое значение приобретает совершенствование административно-территориального устройства страны.«В этой связи проект Конституционного закона разработан в соответствии с требованиями новой Конституции и на основе действующего закона об административно-территориальном устройстве. То есть сохранена преемственность ранее сформированной правовой системы, а также будет обеспечен принцип целостности и устойчивости государства. В проект Конституционного закона включены нормы, касающиеся определения административно-территориальных единиц, регулирования порядка их образования, преобразования и упразднения, а также установления полномочий государственных органов», – дополнил Бауыржан ОмарбековОн добавил, что учтены исторически сложившиеся региональные особенности и закреплены категории административно-территориальных единиц.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1221348?lang=kk
Kazakhstan Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Cooperation within BRICS 15.05.2026
New Delhi, May 15, 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev participated in the BRICS Council of Foreign Ministers meeting held in New Delhi on May 14–15, 2026.During the meeting, the participants discussed a wide range of pressing international and regional issues, including prospects for reforming the global governance system, strengthening multilateral cooperation, ensuring stable economic growth, enhancing trade and economic ties, as well as cooperation in the fields of digital transformation, energy, and climate change mitigation.In his remarks, First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev emphasized the importance of further strengthening multilateral cooperation, developing international transport and logistics corridors and connectivity, promoting digital transformation and artificial intelligence, as well as expanding industrial cooperation, technological exchange, and energy interaction, including the development of green energy and critical minerals. He also underscored the growing role of BRICS as one of the key mechanisms for shaping a more equitable, inclusive, and balanced architecture of global governance.Reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment, as a BRICS partner country, to practical and results-oriented engagement within the association, he highlighted the priority of deepening cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, transport connectivity, and innovation-driven development.Particular attention was paid to sustainable development issues, including ensuring energy and food security, as well as advancing the climate agenda while taking into account the interests of developing countries. In this context, Ashikbayev highlighted the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish a UN-backed International Water Organization aimed at consolidating fragmented international efforts in the water sector.On the sidelines of the event, First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev also held a number of bilateral meetings, including with India’s Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, as well as with the heads of foreign ministries of BRICS member and partner states. The discussions focused on current issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation.Following the meeting, the participants reaffirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening cooperation within the BRICS framework and advancing joint initiatives aimed at ensuring sustainable development and enhancing the stability of the global economy.The Republic of Kazakhstan has been a BRICS partner country since January 1, 2025. In 2026, the Republic of India holds the BRICS Chairmanship under the motto “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.”Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1221464?lang=kk
On the Demographic Situation for January-March 2026 15.05.2026
As of April 1, 2026, the population of the Abai Region amounted to 594.3 thousand people, including 374.2 thousand urban residents (63%) and 220.1 thousand rural residents (37%). Compared to the beginning of 2026, the population decreased by 1.4 thousand people, or 0.2%.Natural Population ChangeOverall, in the Abai Region, the natural population increase for January–March 2026 amounted to 553 people, which is 19.2% lower compared to January–March 2025 (684 people). The overall rate of natural increase was 3.78 per 1000 population.According to civil registration records provided by the civil registry offices, the number of births for January–March 2026 totaled 1797, which is 6.7% lower than during the corresponding period of 2025 (1926 births). The crude birth rate amounted to 12.29 births per 1000 population.During the reporting period, the number of deaths totaled 1,244 people, which is 0.2% higher than in January–March 2025 (1242 deaths). The crude death rate amounted to 8.51 deaths per 1000 population.In January–March 2026, 9 deaths of infants under one year of age were registered in the region, which is 40% lower compared to the corresponding period of 2025 (15 infant deaths). The infant mortality rate amounted to 5.01 per 1000 live births.Population MigrationAccording to data provided by the migration service authorities, in January–March 2026 the number of people arriving in the region amounted to 3,940, while the number of people leaving the region totaled 5893. As a result of external and internal migration, the migration decrease amounted to 1,953 people.The main external migration exchange occurred with CIS countries. The number of arrivals from CIS countries amounted to 39 people, or 65% of the total number of migrants, while the number of departures amounted to 179 people, or 84.23%. The majority of arrivals and departures involved the Russian Federation.Migration with non-CIS countries resulted in a positive balance: 21 people arrived in the region, while 3 people left. Most arrivals came from China, while most departures were to Germany.Regarding interregional migration, the number of arrivals amounted to 3880 people, while departures totaled 5874 people, resulting in a negative migration balance of 1994 people._____________________________________________________________________________________________________________Methodological explanationsThe natural growth rate is the difference between the total fertility and mortality rates.The total fertility rate is an indicator that determines the intensity of childbearing in relation to the entire population. Represents the ratio of the total number of live births during the period to the average population. As a rule, it is calculated per 1000 population.The total mortality rate is an indicator that determines the intensity of mortality of the population. Represents the ratio of the total number of deaths during the period to the average population. As a rule, it is calculated per 1000 population.The infant mortality rate is an indicator that determines the mortality rate of children under the age of one year. It is calculated by the ratio of the number of deaths under the age of 1 to the number of live births. The infant mortality rate is calculated per 1,000 live births.Population migration - the movement of people (migrants) across the borders of certain regions with a change of residence.Migrant - a person who commits a migration with change of residence.Number of arrivals - the number of people who have entered into the region because of its limits during the reporting period.Number of departures - the number of people who left the region outside of its boundaries during the reporting period. www.stat.gov.kz / Official statistics / By industry / Demographic statistics Head of the Division of social and demographic statistics:S.KondratyevaТеl. +7 (7222) 36 25 49 Address:180000, c.Semeyst.Mangilik yel, 25 © Bureau of National Statistics of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/abay/press/news/details/1221037?lang=kk
By order of the akim of the region, Taszhurekov Yerbol Kuanyshevich was appointed deputy akim of Kostanay region 15.05.2026
By order of the regional akim, Yerbol Kuanyshevich Taszhyurekov has been appointed as the deputy akim of the Kostanay region. Previously, he held the position of Vice Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Born in 1979 in the city of Taraz.Has education in the following specialties:economist;lawyer;Master of State and Local Administration;Master of Public Administration and International Relations.Graduated from:M.Kh. Dulaty Taraz State University;Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University;Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan;National School of Administration of France.Work Experience1998–2001 — currency exchange office manager at LLP "Kaznur";2003–2007 — director of LLP "Profile-Lux";2007–2013 — worked in various positions at the District Court No. 2 of the Almaty District of Astana;2013–2014 — held managerial positions in the Ministry of Regional Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan;2014–2016 — deputy director of a department at the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan;2016–2018 — deputy chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry for Investments and Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan;2018–2019 — deputy akim of the South Kazakhstan region;2019–2021 — managing director – member of the Board of JSC "National Management Holding "KazAgro";2023–2026 — Vice Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1220954?lang=kk
QazTrade: The United Territories of Central Asia (UTC) is becoming one of the key drivers of growth in Kazakhstan's non-resource exports 15.05.2026
The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) countries are currently one of the fastest-growing and strategically important export directions for Kazakhstan. This was stated by Aitmukhamed Aldazharov, General Director of the "Center for Trade Policy Development 'QazTrade'" JSC, during the business forum "Economic Integration and Cooperation of OTS Countries: New Opportunities in Industry, Agro-Industrial Complex, Logistics, and Digitalization," held in Astana.The forum brought together representatives of government bodies, development institutions, chambers of commerce, business associations, the entrepreneurial community, logistics companies, investment structures, international partners, as well as representatives of Turkish cooperatives and foreign business circles.As part of the forum, a panel session was held on the topic "Launching a Unified Production, Agricultural, Logistics, and Trade Cooperation Platform as a Practical Mechanism for Attracting Investments."During his speech, Aitmukhamed Aldazharov presented support measures for exporters and practical approaches of QazTrade to promoting Kazakhstani products in foreign markets."Our task is not just to increase supply volumes, but to form sustainable export chains where Kazakhstan becomes a predictable partner with products of stable quality," he noted during his speech.By the end of 2025, Kazakhstan's trade turnover with the Organization of Turkic States countries amounted to $12.9 billion, an increase of 13.2% compared to the previous year. At the same time, Kazakhstani exports grew by 19.9%, reaching $9.49 billion. The main drivers of growth were supplies of value-added products, including wheat, sunflower oil, metal products, confectionery, finished food products, and mineral waters.Key state support measures for exporters implemented by QazTrade were also presented during the speech. These include partial reimbursement of exporters' costs, the "Export Acceleration" program, trade and economic missions, B2B formats, digital export tools, and promotion of domestic companies on international marketplaces.Special attention was paid to the National Exporters Alliance "QazTrade Alliance," launched in 2025. The alliance unites manufacturers, retailers, industry experts, and state institutions to provide comprehensive support to domestic companies in foreign markets, from marketing and certification to logistics and finding foreign partners.QazTrade emphasizes that the development of cooperation between OTS countries should be built not only around trade but also around creating joint infrastructure, unified digital solutions, coordinated logistics approaches, and sustainable production links.As part of the forum, participants also discussed prospects for creating a unified cooperation platform for OTS countries, which could become a practical mechanism for uniting manufacturers, farmers, processors, logistics operators, trade networks, and investors.QazTrade expressed readiness to share its own methodology and platform solutions for implementing this initiative, from diagnosing companies' export readiness to digitally supporting export transactions. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1220955?lang=kk
More than 300 combat sorties: May 15 is the birthday of the first Kazakh female pilot, Khiuaz Dospanova 15.05.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1220576?lang=kk
Astana and Abu Dhabi Advance Consular Cooperation with Focus on Digital Transformation and Smart Services 15.05.2026
Astana hosted the latest round of consular consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, bringing together representatives of relevant government agencies from both countries.The Kazakh delegation was headed by Azamat Aubekov, Director of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, while the UAE delegation was led by Rashed Rahmah, Director of the Consular Service Department at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.During the consultations, the two sides reaffirmed the strong level of bilateral cooperation in the consular sphere and expressed their commitment to further strengthening ties grounded in mutual trust, strategic partnership, and respect for international law. The parties also underscored the importance of the existing visa-free regime in facilitating business, tourism, investment, and people-to-people exchanges between Kazakhstan and the UAE.Alongside discussions on migration, consular legalization, mutual recognition of documents, and the protection of citizens’ rights, particular attention was devoted to the digitalization of consular services and the growing role of artificial intelligence and smart technologies in public administration.In this context, the parties exchanged views on enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of public services through modern digital solutions, improving the responsiveness of consular assistance, and expanding bilateral cooperation in the field of digital transformation. Astana and Abu Dhabi also expressed interest in sharing best practices on the development of intelligent government services and next-generation digital platforms.At the conclusion of the consultations, both delegations described the discussions as constructive and substantive, agreeing to maintain regular dialogue and information exchange on consular matters.The parties further confirmed their intention to hold the next round of consular consultations in the United Arab Emirates at mutually agreed dates.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1220496?lang=kk
The Kazakh army is updating its combat training system to address modern threats. 15.05.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1220542?lang=kk
Ministry of Defense units provide security for the high-level visit 14.05.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1220431?lang=kk
The Public Council on Public Finance discussed the results of the work of the appeal commissions and the draft law on appraisal activities 14.05.2026
At the latest meeting of the Public Council under the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, participants reviewed the activities of the appeals departments and discussed amendments to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Valuation Activities in the Republic of Kazakhstan.”The discussion was attended by the chairperson, members of the Public Council, and heads of the Ministry’s departments.During the meeting, the commission reviewed the performance results of the Internal Government Audit Appeals Department for 2025. Over the reporting period, 100 meetings were held, during which 621 objections regarding desk audits and 139 objections to audit reports were reviewed.It was noted that the commission’s work focuses primarily on ensuring an objective and transparent review of appeals and objections from audited entities, as well as on reducing the number of legal disputes. By the end of the year, most disputed issues had been resolved at the pre-trial stage, which made it possible to restore the rights of individuals and legal entities in 229 cases.Further measures were also discussed regarding the digitization of appeal review processes, the enhancement of the Appeals Commission’s capabilities, and the improvement of the quality of internal government audits.The Director of the Appeals Department presented the results of work on tax and customs disputes for 2024–2025 and the first quarter of 2026. The presentation noted that, to ensure transparency, 1,116 decisions have been posted on the official website of the Ministry of Finance, and an additional 732 decisions have been published on the business community’s online resources “Taxes in Kazakhstan,” “Accounting KZ,” the “PARAGRAF” information system, and the Kazakhstan Association of Customs Brokers (Representatives), while 377 representatives of taxpayers and foreign economic activity participants directly participated in the meetings.As part of a comprehensive set of measures, a list of criteria has been developed to identify invalid transactions for tax audits. In addition, 35 officials have been held accountable for violations committed during tax and customs audits, including 19 auditors, 5 department heads, and 11 division heads. Changes regarding VAT refunds, introduced into the Tax Code as well as the VAT Refund Rules, have also been announced, eliminating discrepancies in the legislation.The meeting also featured a presentation of the draft law “On Amendments and Additions to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan ‘On Valuation Activities’.” The draft law aims to implement the provisions of the General Approaches, ensuring the functioning of a single market for services free of barriers, exemptions, restrictions, additional requirements, and conditions, as well as to further improve legislation on valuation activities.In addition, the draft law contains other amendments regarding the clarification and optimization of provisions to ensure alignment with law enforcement practices, aimed at improving the legislation.The adoption of amendments regarding the establishment of a single market for property appraisal services will create conditions for Kazakhstani appraisers to enter the international market, expand opportunities for professional practice across the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and enhance the international competitiveness of domestic specialists.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/minfin/press/news/details/1220464?lang=kk
Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom Discuss Expanding Trade and Investment Cooperation 14.05.2026
A meeting was held in Astana between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov and the His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Eastern Europe and Central Asia David Reed MBE.The discussion focused on prospects for further strengthening Kazakh-British trade, economic and investment partnership, as well as priority items on the agenda of the upcoming meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission.Positive dynamics in bilateral trade and significant potential for its further growth were noted. In this context, it was emphasized that Kazakhstan is the United Kingdom’s largest trading partner in Central Asia: of nearly GBP 5 billion in UK trade with the countries of the region, around GBP 2.7 billion accounts for Kazakhstan.Particular attention was paid to the development of investment cooperation in critical minerals, energy, infrastructure, transport and logistics, financial services, digitalization, artificial intelligence and education. The potential for cooperation in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route was also highlighted, taking into account Kazakhstan’s strategic location and its role in ensuring resilient supply chains between Europe and Asia.The meeting also addressed opportunities to attract British expertise and financial instruments for the implementation of infrastructure, energy and industrial projects in Kazakhstan. In this context, the ratified Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement was noted as creating a favorable framework for advancing concrete mutually beneficial projects, expanding institutional engagement and ensuring the practical implementation of agreements across key areas of the bilateral agenda.Humanitarian and educational cooperation was also noted to be gaining momentum, including through the expanding presence of British universities in Kazakhstan. Education, skills development and the advancement of the innovation ecosystem were highlighted as important elements of long-term economic partnership.Following the meeting, readiness was reaffirmed to further deepen the Kazakh-British strategic partnership, expand mutual trade and ensure the practical implementation of the agreements reached.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1220051?lang=kk