On the eve of the Astana International Forum, the Kazakhstan–Italy Business Forum was held in Astana. The event was organized by the Italo-Kazakh Trade Association (ACIK) with the support of government agencies from both countries. Key topics included the development of industrial cooperation, digitalization of logistics chains, and the expansion of export opportunities.

The forum was attended by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Olzhas Bektenov, the Minister of Trade and Integration, Arman Shakkaliyev, as well as representatives of sectoral ministries, national companies, and businesses. The Italian delegation included leaders of major companies and associations such as MAIRE, ENI, Tenaris, Leonardo, Danieli, Bonifiche Ferraresi, Confindustria, Confapi, and others.

As part of the forum, a panel session titled "Kazakhstan’s Supply Chain and 'Made with Italy' Opportunities" was held, featuring a speech by Gabidulla Ospankulov, Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In his remarks, he emphasized that Italy is Kazakhstan’s third-largest trading partner and that bilateral trade volume increased by 24% in 2024. However, he noted that the trade structure remains narrow and requires diversification.

G.Ospankulov elaborated on key sectors where deeper cooperation is possible, including transport and logistics, energy, agribusiness, and digital transformation. He stressed that Kazakhstan plans to implement over 200 infrastructure projects by 2029, attracting $80 billion in investments, and is actively developing international corridors, including the Middle and North–South routes. Particular interest was expressed in cooperation with the ports of Trieste and Genoa. He also highlighted the potential for collaboration in green energy and artificial intelligence, underscoring Kazakhstan’s readiness to launch joint high-tech initiatives.

“We view supply chain development as a strategic process encompassing industry, energy, agribusiness, and digital technologies. Joint projects with Italian companies can become drivers of deep localization and entry into European markets,” he stated.

Another panel session, "Business Cases and Best Practices," focused on successful collaboration between Kazakh and Italian companies. During the discussion, Azamat Kozhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of “NC “KAZAKH INVEST” JSC, confirmed the national company’s readiness to provide comprehensive support to Italian investors — from site selection to project facilitation at all stages. He noted that business interest remains consistently high and emphasized the importance of moving from dialogue to practical implementation of initiatives.

The forum continued the dialogue initiated at the bilateral business forum in Milan in October last year and served as a starting point for preparing the next meeting in Italy. The event also included B2B and B2G meetings, where specific projects and opportunities for expanding practical cooperation were discussed.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/invest/press/news/details/1006887?lang=kk