Interview with Artem Anatolyevich Abildinov, Deputy Head of the State Revenue Department for the Mangystau region

Artyom Anatolyevich, what are the key changes in customs regulation in effect in 2026 and the most noticeable for citizens and businesses?

A.A. Abildinov: Starting from July 1, 2026, e-commerce products have been allocated to a separate category within the EAEU. The duty-free limit has been maintained at 200 euros. At the same time, the weight threshold of 31 kg has been abolished. If the value of the parcel or order exceeds 200 euros, a customs duty of 5% of the value of the goods plus VAT of 16% will be charged. A special declaration for e-commerce goods has been introduced, which is issued by operators. For most ordinary purchases from AliExpress, Temu and similar sites, the procedure remains familiar — you do not need to contact the customs authorities yourself. These measures are aimed at streamlining online commerce and preventing the import of commercial shipments under the guise of personal purchases.

How does digitalization affect customs administration, especially in the Mangystau region with its seaports?

A.A. Abildinov: We are actively working in the Keden information system. It allows you to speed up the processing of transit declarations (from 30 to about 10 minutes), process container trains much faster and minimize paperwork. In the region, this is especially important for Aktau and Kuryk seaports, terminals and checkpoints. The upgraded posts, including Temir Baba on the border with Turkmenistan, are already showing a reduction in border crossing time. Digital tools increase transparency, reduce administrative burden, and enable more effective risk management.

What is important for participants in foreign economic activity and individuals to know right now?

A.A. Abildinov: I recommend that participants of foreign economic activity switch to work at Keden in a timely manner, keep up-to-date reference books and properly arrange preliminary information. Individuals should be attentive to the cost and nature of parcels. With regular large shipments, even from the EAEU countries, full-fledged registration may be required if the signs indicate entrepreneurial activity. There have been no significant changes in rates for customs clearance of vehicles at the moment — we are working within the framework of current legislation.

What are the Department's priorities in customs administration in the near future?

A.A. Abildinov: The main thing is to ensure a balance between convenience for bona fide participants in foreign economic activity and effective control. The State Revenue Committee continues digitalization, and the Department continues to optimize the work of customs posts, explanatory work and interaction with businesses. Mangystau region is an important logistics hub, so speeding up procedures while maintaining full control remains a priority.

(Unofficial translation)

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1263247?lang=ru