National dishes for Kazakhs are not just a festive dastarkhan. Traditional products like kazy, kymyz, kurt, and baursaks are part of everyday life. Today, this gastronomic culture is gradually expanding beyond the country's borders and becoming part of Kazakhstan's export potential. According to estimates by QazTrade experts, with systematic support, the export of Kazakh national products could reach 50–80 million US dollars by 2028. Key markets - Russia and China Russia and China remain among the key markets for Kazakhstan's national products, where more than 2 million representatives of the Kazakh diaspora reside. This creates a stable demand for traditional products. On the Russian market, kurt and kumys are particularly popular. In China, especially in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, more than 10 million Muslims live, creating a stable demand for halal products. Interest in meat delicacies is growing here. According to QazTrade statistics, the global market for halal meat and delicacies is currently estimated at approximately 2.1 trillion dollars and is growing by about 7% annually. Export of traditional dairy products is growing The export of Kazakh traditional dairy products shows steady growth. For example, the export of products including kumys, shubat, and ayran amounted to 13.4 million dollars in 2024 and 17.3 million dollars in 2025. The growth was 29.4%. The main difficulty in exporting kumys is its shelf life. Genuine chilled kumys lasts only 3-5 days, so delivering it to distant markets is quite challenging. By the time the product reaches another country, it may simply lose its properties. Therefore, producers and technologists are currently seeking solutions. These include pasteurized kumys, which lasts up to 30 days, and also lyophilized kumys powder, essentially dry saumal. Such products are already being supplied to China, although volumes remain small for now. "Nomadic Gastronomy" as a new export brand This refers to an entire direction increasingly called "nomadic gastronomy" - the cuisine of steppe culture, based on natural meat and dairy products. Against this backdrop, Kazakhstan's traditional products are gradually finding their niche in foreign markets. What is part of everyday culture for Kazakhs is becoming a new gastronomic discovery for foreign buyers. "The world's demand for functional food and superfoods is growing, and the Kazakh traditional diet perfectly meets this need. The same kurt is a source of beneficial microelements, and tary and talkan are becoming increasingly recognizable among foreign consumers during trade missions and international exhibitions. Traditional steppe food sells well and is in demand through networks of Kazakh restaurants and cafes abroad. For example, the famous cappuccino with tary, a kind of 'ground steppe coffee,' is already appearing in the USA. It is a simple, accessible, and functional product," noted Aitmukhamed Aldazharov, General Director of QazTrade.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1187654?lang=kk

The Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan has summarized the results of the national competition "Sauda in Digital Nauryz", held among trade entities. The event, which took place from March 13 to 20, demonstrated the potential of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) in the trade sector. Participants were evaluated based on five main criteria (use of AI, creativity, national flavor, audience engagement, and quality) using a 100-point system. Based on the competition results, the following trade entities were recognized as the best: "Best Digital Greeting" — TSUM (Karaganda): highest score — 92 points. The video material was noted for effectively conveying the values of the Nauryz holiday through digital channels and its ability to emotionally engage the audience. "Best Application of Artificial Intelligence" — "Umai" (Karaganda): 90 points. In the project, AI technologies were used to create visual and interactive content, demonstrating the high potential of modern digital tools. "Most Creative Digital Project" — the "Small" network: 90 points. The project was recognized as the best for its non-standard format, use of storytelling elements, and unique audience engagement concept. "Best Digital Design" — "Anvar": 88 points. The retail space was comprehensively designed using screen solutions and visual elements, creating a unified festive atmosphere for visitors. As noted by ministry representatives, this year participants were active on Instagram, using the hashtag #saudadigitalnauryz, which confirmed that the trade sector is evolving in line with modern digital trends. The awards ceremony for the winners took place on March 23.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1187766?lang=kk

25 марта 2026 года в столице Узбекистана состоялся первый международный форум «Центральная Азия: от производительности к процветанию. Региональный диалог». Казахстан на мероприятии представил вице-министр национальной экономики Ерлан Сагнаев.Форум объединил представителей правительств, международных организаций и делового сообщества для обсуждения стратегических направлений развития региона. В центре внимания - повышение производительности труда, модернизация агропромышленного комплекса, цифровая трансформация и развитие человеческого капитала.Ключевым итогом встречи стало подписание Ташкентской декларации, закрепившей намерение стран Центральной Азии консолидировать усилия для перехода к качественно новой модели экономического роста - основанной на эффективности, инновациях и знаниях.В своём выступлении Ерлан Сагнаев подчеркнул, что регион демонстрирует устойчивую динамику развития и укрепление взаимного доверия между странами.«Сегодня перед нами стоит общая задача - перейти от количественного роста к росту, основанному на производительности. Наша стратегическая цель - трансформировать эту эффективность в устойчивое и инклюзивное процветание», - отметил он.Вице-министр обозначил ключевые направления, способные усилить региональную синергию.Так, взаимная торговля остаётся одним из драйверов сотрудничества: по итогам 2025 года товарооборот Казахстана со странами Центральной Азии достиг 8,8 млрд долларов США, увеличившись на 14,4 %, при этом экспорт вырос на 21,7% и составил 6,6 млрд долларов. Дополнительный потенциал связан с упрощением процедур и цифровизацией торговых процессов.Существенную роль играет развитие транспортно-логистической связности. В частности, отмечена значимость проекта железной дороги «Дарбаза–Мактаарал», реализуемого при поддержке международных финансовых институтов. Ожидается, что запуск линии позволит значительно увеличить пропускную способность.В сфере инвестиций предложено активнее использовать возможности Тюркского инвестиционного фонда для создания совместных индустриальных зон и кластеров, способных стать точками роста производительности.Отдельный акцент сделан на цифровой трансформации. Казахстан выразил готовность делиться технологическими решениями и развивать совместные проекты на базе инфраструктуры Astana Hub.Ключевым фактором роста обозначено развитие человеческого капитала - через образовательное сотрудничество, обмен знаниями и совместную работу с международными организациями, включая структуры ООН, по достижению Целей устойчивого развития.Помимо декларации, по итогам форума подписан ряд соглашений с международными партнёрами. Участники договорились о проведении форума на регулярной основе как рабочей площадки для практического взаимодействия, обмена опытом и координации совместных проектов, направленных на повышение производительности и устойчивого экономического роста региона.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1187833?lang=kk

In the village of Karabalyk, Kostanay region, an event called "Ecological Quiz" was held at the Youth Resource Center. This intellectual and entertaining game is aimed at enhancing environmental literacy among youth as part of the republican initiative "Taza Kazakhstan".The goal of the event is to foster a responsible attitude towards the environment and expand young people's knowledge about pressing environmental issues, such as environmental pollution, climate change, and the rational use of natural resources.The "Ecological Quiz" combines knowledge testing, logical thinking, and teamwork. During the game, participants not only tested their knowledge but also learned new facts about nature and ways to preserve it.The organizers note that the ecological quiz is not just entertainment but also an effective way to cultivate environmental awareness, develop youth interest in environmental protection issues, and foster a conscious attitude towards the planet's future.The event became an important part of efforts to educate an environmentally literate generation capable of treating nature with care and contributing to the sustainable development of the region, while also supporting the goals of the "Taza Kazakhstan" initiative.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1188025?lang=kk

Astana, March 26, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Abbas Araghchi.The Ministers discussed the current situation in the Middle East and exchanged views on main issues of the bilateral cooperation.During the conversation, Minister Kosherbayev expressed concern over the situation around Iran and confirmed Kazakhstan’s readiness to provide a venue for holding peace negotiations in the city of Turkistan, as previously stated by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.In addition, it was agreed to continue the dialogue on relevant issues of the bilateral relations. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1188047?lang=kk

A Kazakh delegation led by First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev participated in the 43rd meeting of UN-Water, held at the headquarters of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in Rome. During the meeting, the Kazakh delegation presented the upcoming Regional Environmental Summit in Astana, as well as plans for international consultations on the initiative of the Head of State to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations.During his working visit to Rome, First Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev also held meetings with senior officials from Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as with representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).In a meeting with Italy’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Edmondo Cirielli, the sides discussed current issues in bilateral cooperation and prospects for further strengthening relations between Kazakhstan and Italy, including within the C5 + 1 framework and through the Kazakhstan–Italy Intergovernmental Working Group on industrial and economic cooperation.Yerzhan Ashikbayev outlined the major reforms underway in Kazakhstan as part of the President’s reform programme, including the results of the referendum on the draft new Constitution and the continued transformation of the country’s political system. He also shared Kazakhstan’s position on a number of key international issues.For his part, Edmondo Cirielli noted the strong momentum in bilateral relations and expressed support for Kazakhstan’s initiatives both in advancing domestic reforms and in its foreign policy.During a meeting with First Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Godfrey Magwenzi, the parties discussed cooperation between Kazakhstan and the FAO. In particular, they reviewed the Kazakhstan–FAO Partnership Programme, highlighting its work in areas such as agricultural modernisation, food security, and sustainable water management.Yerzhan Ashikbayev noted that Kazakhstan, as a major agricultural producer in Central Asia, plays an important role in ensuring regional food security and is among the leading producers and exporters of grain and oilseeds. He highlighted that efforts to develop the sector are already delivering results, with overall agricultural output increasing by 13.6% last year.He added that Kazakhstan aims to significantly expand its agricultural processing sector in the coming years, with the goal of increasing the share of high value-added products to 70%. To achieve this, the country plans to build new processing facilities and modernise existing ones.Yerzhan Ashikbayev also reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s intention to strengthen its partnership with the FAO, including through the implementation of a three-year plan to launch more than 700 investment projects in the agri-food sector.During a meeting with IFAD President and Chair of UN-Water Alvaro Lario, the parties reviewed their joint efforts to advance regional and international cooperation in water security. Yerzhan Ashikbayev noted that, through the KazAID agency, Kazakhstan provides humanitarian assistance to partner countries and contributes to socio-economic stability in regions affected by crises, natural disasters, and other emergencies.He also emphasised the growing importance of water-related challenges globally. In this context, he highlighted the significance of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organisation within the United Nations framework, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to international solidarity and sustainable development.Yerzhan Ashikbayev also noted Kazakhstan’s interest in hosting a FAO subregional office and an IFAD office for Central Asia. He stressed that this would strengthen the UN Regional SDG Centre for Central Asia and Afghanistan and contribute positively to the region’s food security agenda. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1188052?lang=kk

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On March 26, 2026, a meeting took place in the Vatican between First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerzhan Ashikbayev, and the Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See, Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad.During the discussions, both sides highlighted the high level of friendly and trust-based relations between Kazakhstan and the Holy See, emphasizing their steady development and mutual commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.Particular attention was given to collaboration within the framework of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. The Vatican confirmed that its delegation will participate in the forthcoming session of the Secretariat of the Congress, scheduled to be held in October 2026 in Astana.The interlocutors also exchanged views on pressing international issues, including the promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, the consolidation of peace, and the advancement of sustainable development.At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their shared resolve to further deepen bilateral engagement and cooperation.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1188051?lang=kk

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Astana, March 27, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan announces the removal of the Arab Republic of Egypt from the list of countries not recommended for travel. This decision has been made taking into account the current situation, as well as the functioning conditions of civil infrastructure, including international airports and tourist areas in the country.At the same time, due to the ongoing tense situation in the Middle East, as well as the periodic closure of airspace by a number of countries in the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan maintains its recommendation to refrain from all types of travel until the situation fully normalized to the following countries: Bahrain, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.Citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan currently in the region are once again urged to exercise heightened personal safety measures, refrain from visiting potentially dangerous areas, strictly follow the instructions of local authorities, including immediately proceeding to shelters in the event of a missile threat, and maintain constant contact with Kazakhstan’s foreign missions, tour operators, and air carriers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1188910?lang=kk

The "Snow Landing" campaign has been organized in the Altynsarin district of the Kostanay region, aimed at improving the sanitary condition of settlements and landscaping the territories.As part of the event, work was carried out to clean up yard areas and adjacent plots of private houses. Residents of all rural districts of the region, representatives of youth, public organizations, and volunteer associations took part in the campaign.The event took place simultaneously in all settlements of the district, which ensured broad coverage and active involvement of the local community.The main goal of the campaign is to foster a responsible attitude among citizens towards maintaining cleanliness and order, as well as to draw attention to issues of landscaping.The "Snow Landing" campaign is another step in the systematic work to create a comfortable and favorable living environment for the district's population.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1188991?lang=kk

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In the Nauryzym district, cleanup work was carried out as a sign of respect for the veterans of the Great Patriotic War.Residents of the district, youth, volunteers, and employees of various institutions united and cleared snow from the territories of monuments dedicated to war veterans. As a result, the adjacent areas have been put in order, creating comfortable conditions for visitors.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1186924?lang=kk

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