With the entry into force of the new Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (No. 214-VIII), the rules for paying individual income tax (IIT) on the sale of property have changed, but a transitional period has been provided.What is a “capital gain” and when does tax arise?If you sell property for more than you originally paid for it, the difference is your income (capital gain). It is this net profit that is subject to a 10% tax.However, tax is not always payable. It depends on what exactly you owned and how long the property was in your ownership.Sale of real estate: new holding periods and the transitional periodThe main change in 2026 is that the minimum ownership period for residential property to be sold tax-free increases from 1 year to 2 years.To ensure that this does not come as a surprise to citizens, a transitional rule has been introduced for 2026–2027:If you purchased an apartment before January 1, 2026: the previous rules continue to apply to you. If you sell it after owning it for 1 year, the tax is 0 tenge.If you purchased an apartment after January 1, 2026: to avoid paying tax, you will have to wait 2 years from the date of registration of ownership rights.From 2028: the two-year rule will apply uniformly to everyone.What about newly built properties?When assigning rights of claim in a multi-apartment residential building under a shared-equity participation agreement in housing construction, no tax is payable if 3 years have passed from the date of signing the shared-equity participation agreement or 2 years from the date of registration of ownership rights.When is no tax exemption provided at all?Tax must be paid on any profit, regardless of how long you have owned the property, if you sell:Commercial real estate in Kazakhstan (offices, stores, warehouses, business premises);Any residential property or real estate located abroad.Sale of vehiclesFor vehicles registered in Kazakhstan: the previous rule applies. If the vehicle has been owned for 1 year or more, no tax is payable upon its sale.If you sell it less than one year after purchase and for a price higher than the purchase price, you pay tax only on the difference.For vehicles registered abroad, tax on the capital gain must be paid regardless of how long you have owned the vehicle.Cryptocurrency and securitiesIf you invest in digital assets (cryptocurrency), please note that tax is payable on them regardless of the ownership period. Special rules continue to apply to securities, allowing both investment gains and losses to be taken into account.How is the initial cost determined if there are no receipts or contracts?Under the law, your profit is calculated as the “sale price minus the purchase price.” But what if the old apartment sale and purchase agreement has been lost? In this case, the tax authorities will use the official appraised or cadastral value of the property as the basis.If you imported and cleared a vehicle through customs from abroad, the initial cost officially includes the customs duties, VAT, excise taxes, and recycling fee paid by you. This will reduce the final amount of tax.Quick guideApartment / house / summer house / garage in Kazakhstan: can be sold tax-free after 2 years (or after 1 year if purchased before January 1, 2026).Vehicle registered in Kazakhstan: can be sold tax-free after 1 year.Commercial real estate, foreign real estate, and cryptocurrency: tax is always payable on the profit.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-almaty/press/news/details/1270202?lang=ru

Ankara, 5 August 2026 – During his working visit to Ankara, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issagaliyev held negotiations with Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye Ayşe Berris Ekinci and Musa Kulaklıkaya.During the meetings, special attention was paid to opportunities for further strengthening relations based on an enhanced strategic partnership, covering a wide range of political, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian fields.The parties exchanged views on the progress of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Kazakhstan and Türkiye, as well as current issues on the regional agenda, and outlined concrete steps to implement the agreements reached at the high and highest levels.Ways to develop cooperation within international platforms, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Organization of Turkic States, were discussed.Following the meetings, the sides reaffirmed their commitment to continuing effective cooperation on a systematic basis in the discussed areas.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1270184?lang=ru

Astana, 6 August 2026 - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a telephone conversation with Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania Oana Țoiu.During the conversation, the sides discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Kazakhstan-Romania cooperation, reaffirming their mutual interest in further strengthening political dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties, and intensifying cooperation in priority areas.Particular attention was paid to energy cooperation, which is of strategic importance for bilateral relations. In this context, the interlocutors discussed the situation surrounding the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), which plays a key role in ensuring the export of Kazakh oil to international markets. Emphasizing the strategic importance of the stable operation of energy infrastructure and ensuring reliable hydrocarbon supplies to the European market, the sides condemned any actions that pose a threat to the functioning of CPC infrastructure and the security of energy supplies.The Heads of the Foreign Ministries noted their mutual interest in further developing practical cooperation between Kazakhstan and Romania in the energy sector, as well as in strengthening the resilience of existing cooperation mechanisms.In conclusion, Acting Minister Țoiu invited Minister Kosherbayev to pay an official visit to Romania, noting the importance of continuing regular political dialogue and maintaining high-level contacts.https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1270165?lang=ruSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bucharest/press/news/details/1270188?lang=ru

The Trade Committee of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan has summarized the results of its work for the first half of 2026. During the meeting, the results of measures to stabilize prices for socially significant food products were reviewed, as well as the effectiveness of the work of territorial departments.Thanks to the systematic work carried out, the growth rate of prices for socially significant goods in the country has significantly decreased compared to the same period — by 4.6 percent.This was achieved by strengthening state control, expanding the list of goods under monitoring, as well as support measures for domestic producers.A total of 3,907 administrative cases were registered, of which 2,391 are related to exceeding the permissible trade markup. As a result of the work of regional commissions, 2,322 violations were identified, and 164 inefficient intermediaries were eliminated from supply chains.In addition, as part of control measures, more than 46.5 thousand illegally imported eggs were seized, digital food vouchers were introduced, as well as price monitoring for 31 commodity items. 132 agricultural fairs were organized weekly. The modernization of 25 trade markets and the strengthening of executive discipline for the timely provision of information are under special control.At the same time, following the results of June, a decrease in the effectiveness of price control work was noted in certain regions.The work of Atyrau and North Kazakhstan regions in the field of state control was criticized. In particular, in the Atyrau region, only 12 violations were identified in the first half of the year, which indicates insufficient effectiveness of control activities. In addition, since the beginning of the year, not a single inefficient intermediary has been eliminated from the market in Abai, Aktobe, Karaganda, Zhambyl, Turkestan regions and the city of Astana.«We do not need meetings held for the sake of reporting. We need a concrete result — identifying violations, eliminating inefficient intermediaries from the market, and preventing unjustified price increases remain our main tasks», — emphasized Yernur Zhautykov, Chairman of the Trade Committee, outlining strict requirements for the quality of control work.Following the results of the board meeting, it was instructed to complete the modernization of trade markets by the end of 2026. The main priorities for the second half of the year are maintaining price stability, developing small "near-home" fairs, as well as implementing the digital food voucher project.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1270158?lang=ru

According to the National Product Catalog, as of August 2026, over 29 million product items are registered in the registry. The largest share of registered product cards belongs to clothing and everyday goods.An analysis of the distribution by OKTRU categories in the National Product Catalog shows a clear leadership of two industries. Clothing and everyday goods rank first by a wide margin – over 8 million registered cards in this category, which accounts for a significant portion of the entire catalog. In second place are vehicles and transport equipment – over 2 million products, followed by equipment and materials for engineering systems – over 1 million cards.The top 10 also includes construction products, furniture and interior items, food and beverages, building materials, jewelry, machinery and equipment, as well as printed products.This distribution reflects the structure of the Kazakhstani consumer goods market and confirms the demand for the NPC primarily among manufacturers and importers of mass-market goods – segments with the most dynamic turnover and a high need for product traceability.The National Product Catalog (NPC) is a centralized state database containing information on all goods produced and imported in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The mandatory use of the NPC as a unified state product reference book is enshrined in the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan No. 215-VIII dated July 18, 2025.Each product in the catalog is assigned a unique identification code NTIN – a 13-digit number used at all stages of the product life cycle: during production, import, storage, sale, issuance of electronic invoices, and in the operation of cash registers. The code is issued free of charge and is valid indefinitely.As of July 1, 2026, the transitional period for implementing NPC requirements for the last category of market participants – small and micro-business entities, including convenience stores – has ended. As of today, all categories of trading participants – from large importers and manufacturers to small retail outlets – are required to use it as a unified product reference book.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1270147?lang=ru

On 22 July 2026, the "Uzbekistan – Pearl of the Silk Road" Tourism Forum was held in Aktau. The event was organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Kazakhstan and the Consulate General of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Aktau.During the forum, representatives of Uzbekistan's tourism sector presented the country's tourism, investment, and economic potential, highlighting key tourism development priorities, promising projects, and opportunities for cooperation.The Mangystau Region showcased its tourism potential, ongoing and planned investment projects, and initiatives aimed at developing tourism infrastructure and enhancing the region's attractiveness as a travel destination.The forum served as an important platform for exchanging experience, establishing new business partnerships, and strengthening tourism cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Mangystau Region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270124?lang=ru

In 2026, the legendary song "Otan Ana" by Batyrkhan Shukenov was performed on the violin in the Kyzylkup Valley of the Mangystau Region. The performance showcased one of the region's most spectacular natural landmarks while promoting Mangystau's unique tourism attractions.Kyzylkup is renowned for its colorful hills and distinctive red-and-white striped rock formations. Millions of years ago, the area was covered by the waters of an ancient ocean. Today, its striking landscape has earned it the popular nickname "Tiramisu Valley."Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270115?lang=ru

In 2026, FlyArystan successfully operated the first direct international flight from Aktau to Urumqi, China. The launch of the new route marked an important milestone in expanding Mangystau's international air connectivity and strengthening tourism and business cooperation.The inaugural flight carried residents of the Mangystau Region, local bloggers, and media representatives. The trip was organized as an information tour, allowing participants to explore Urumqi's tourism, cultural, and business potential over several days.The new Aktau–Urumqi route makes international travel more accessible while strengthening tourism and economic ties between Kazakhstan and China.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270119?lang=ru

On August 6, 2026, Chairman of the Board of the Kazakhstan Agency of International Development "KazAID", Nurgali Arystanov, held a meeting with Bing Wang, Acting Director General of the Operational Partnerships Department at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).During the meeting, the parties discussed prospective areas of cooperation and opportunities for further interaction between the organizations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kazaid/press/news/details/1270120?lang=ru

On 29 May 2026, the Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Mangystau Region hosted a seminar for owners of tourist facilities and beaches. The event brought together representatives of the Regional Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control, the Tourism Department, the Department of Energy and Housing and Communal Services, and the Department of Passenger Transport and Highways.Managers of 45 beaches and recreation areas from Aktau, Zhanaozen, Tupkaragan, and Karakiya districts joined the meeting online. Discussions focused on maintaining sanitary and epidemiological safety during the summer tourism season, improving service quality, complying with public utility requirements, ensuring food safety, and preventing seasonal infectious diseases.At the end of the seminar, participants received practical guidance on current legal requirements andSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270108?lang=ru

The Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan held a meeting aimed at improving the quality of tax and customs audits and preventing errors during their implementation. The meeting was part of the Ministry of Finance's proactive efforts to improve law enforcement practices and develop unified approaches, which will reduce the number of violations and enhance the effectiveness of state control. The event, chaired by Vice Minister of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Birzhanov, took place on August 3, 2026, at the State Revenue Committee. The agenda focused on the quality of tax and customs audits, as well as the results of their appeals. The event was held via videoconference with the participation of employees of the State Revenue Committee's central office and territorial divisions directly conducting tax and customs audits. As part of the Ministry of Finance's proactive efforts, special attention was paid to preventing systemic errors and improving audit practices. The main goal of the meeting was to develop unified approaches to the application of tax and customs legislation, as well as to eliminate the causes that lead to the cancellation of audit results. Serik Aisin, Director of the Appeals Department of the Ministry of Finance, presented an analysis of the most common violations identified during the review of complaints by the Appeals Commission. Issues related to settlements with unreliable taxpayers, the application of tax and customs legislation, and the classification of goods were discussed. Participants paid special attention to the correct application of the provisions of the new Tax Code, which entered into force on January 1, 2026, including amendments aimed at simplifying the VAT refund procedure. The application of new VAT refund rules was also discussed. Representatives of the State Revenue Committee reported on measures taken to improve the quality of audits, including the use of judicial review, streamlining the procedure for reviewing taxpayers' written arguments based on preliminary audit results, and implementing automated mechanisms for monitoring the sequence of actions, adhering to procedural deadlines, and recording the stages of document delivery in accordance with the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Code. Summing up the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Finance noted that improving the quality of audit activities is impossible without systematic efforts to develop auditors' professional competencies, regular training, and organizational and motivational events. Such meetings contribute to the prevention of violations, a reduction in the number of errors during tax and customs audits, the development of uniform law enforcement practices, and increased protection of taxpayers' rights.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/minfin/press/news/details/1270100?lang=ru

In 2026, the city of Aktau was officially designated the Tourism Capital of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO). The announcement was made on 29 April during the 9th Meeting of the ECO High-Level Experts Group on Tourism.Held from 27 to 29 April, the meeting focused on tourism development, expanding international cooperation, creating cross-border tourism routes, attracting investment, and promoting the tourism potential of ECO member states.This designation is expected to strengthen Aktau's international tourism profile, attract new investment, boost visitor numbers, and support the development of cross-border tourism initiatives.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270092?lang=ru

In 2026, the Mangystau Tourism College hosted the regional forum "New Tourism College: A Modern Stage of Development." During the event, the college unveiled its renewed brand and new development strategy while highlighting innovative and digital initiatives for vocational education.The forum brought together representatives of educational institutions, government agencies, businesses, IT professionals, students, social partners, and the media. Participants were introduced to new digital projects, including an AI-powered "Healthy Nutrition" Telegram bot, collaborative educational initiatives, startup projects, and newly signed cooperation agreements.The event emphasized the importance of training highly qualified professionals for the tourism industry and highlighted the college's key role in preparing specialists to support the sustainable development of Mangystau's tourism sector.    Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270083?lang=ru

On 2 February 2026, a regional meeting chaired by Mangystau Region Akim Nurdaulet Igilikuly was held to discuss the draft of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The meeting focused on the importance of constitutional reforms, strengthening democracy, ensuring the rule of law, and maintaining the balance of powers. Participants also emphasized the importance of broad public discussion and raising public awareness of the proposed constitutional changes.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270072?lang=ru

Akim of the East Kazakhstan Region Nurymbet Saktaganov held a working meeting with the management of one of China's largest automotive manufacturers, Dongfeng Motor Corporation.The parties discussed the prospects for implementing investment projects in the East Kazakhstan Region, as well as opportunities to expand mutually beneficial cooperation in the industrial sector.The Head of the Region emphasized that the East Kazakhstan Region is interested in attracting strategic investors, introducing advanced technologies, and establishing new manufacturing facilities."Cooperation with major international companies creates additional opportunities for the economic development of the East Kazakhstan Region and the creation of new jobs," said Nurymbet Saktaganov.Following the meeting, the parties signed a Memorandum of Cooperation. The possibility of implementing a major investment project in the East Kazakhstan Region is currently being explored.On the instructions of the Akim of the East Kazakhstan Region, the Department of Tourism and Investments will continue to strengthen cooperation with Dongfeng Motor Corporation, facilitate the implementation of the agreements reached, and support the realization of the investment project in the region. Within its competence, the Department will provide the necessary assistance to create favorable conditions for the project's implementation and further expand investment cooperation between the East Kazakhstan Region and its Chinese partners.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tourism-vko/press/news/details/1270076?lang=ru

On 15 December 2025, the Mangystau Region Akimat and the Regional Tourism Department organized a roadshow for tour operators and travel bloggers from Dubai, United Arab Emirates.The event aimed to showcase the region's tourism potential, tourism infrastructure, and travel services while strengthening business partnerships and expanding international cooperation. The roadshow brought together representatives of UAE travel companies, Aktau International Airport, FlyArystan, local tour operators, hotels, and tourism businesses.During the event, Mangystau's tourism products and investment opportunities were presented, and cooperation memorandums were signed between Rixos Water World Aktau, local tour operator Skyway, and several leading travel companies from the United Arab Emirates. The agreements are expected to increase visitor flows from the Middle East and strengthen Mangystau's international tourism partnerships.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270063?lang=ru

In 2025, Baurzhan Rapikov, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, visited the Mangystau Region on a working trip and met with local residents. The meeting brought together representatives of the Ministry, regional and district government bodies, tourism and sports professionals, and members of the business community.The discussion focused on the development of tourism and sports, digitalization, investment attraction, improvement of tourism infrastructure, the registration of businesses on digital platforms, and the expansion of tourist transportation services. Participants also reviewed the implementation of the 2025–2029 Comprehensive Development Plan for the Mangystau Tourism Region, including the completion of several tourism and sports facilities and the start of road construction to the Bozzhyra area.The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session and discussions on further strengthening cooperation to support the sustainable development of tourism and sports in the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270052?lang=ru

On 29 November 2025, the official opening ceremony of the Aktau–Dubai direct flight took place at Aktau International Airport. The new route was launched through the cooperation between the Mangystau Region Akimat and FlyArystan.The new connection expands international air links, supports tourism development, strengthens business relations, and enhances international cooperation. Direct flights to Dubai—one of the world's leading tourism and financial hubs—make travel more convenient for both residents and visitors.The launch of the route is expected to increase tourist arrivals, improve transport accessibility, and further strengthen cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates.    Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270044?lang=ru

Al-Kuwait, 6 August 2026 – the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Kuwait, Yerzhan Yelekeyev, held a meeting with the Minister of Commerce and Industry of the State of Kuwait, Osama Boodai.During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of bilateral trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as practical measures to further expand it.The Kazakh side presented the country's latest socio-economic indicators. Kazakhstan's GDP grew by 6.5% in 2025. Particular attention was given to the development of the country's agricultural sector, which possesses significant potential to further drive economic growth, expand export capacity, and contribute to global food security. The Ambassador noted that Kazakhstan ranks among the world's top ten wheat exporters and is one of the world's six largest exporters of sunflower oil.The Ambassador also emphasized Kazakhstan's readiness to establish a reliable food corridor for Kuwait and ensure long-term supplies of high-quality agricultural and food products.The parties also discussed the prospects for linking the International North-South Transport Corridor with the railway infrastructure currently being developed in the Gulf countries, which could contribute to the creation of new transport and logistics routes between Central Asia and the Middle East.Minister Osama Boodai reaffirmed Kuwait's interest in further strengthening cooperation with Kazakhstan, particularly in the areas of food security and agricultural imports.The Kuwaiti side also expressed its interest in establishing strategic food storage facilities to build long-term reserves of essential food commodities and enhance the resilience of supply chains.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to send samples of priority Kazakh agricultural products to Kuwait, including wheat, barley, sunflower oil and other promising export products. Upon their evaluation, the parties will continue negotiations on the terms of supply and the conclusion of relevant commercial agreements.The parties also welcomed the progress already achieved in supplying Kazakh meat products to Kuwait and expressed confidence that the range of exported products would continue to expand through new practical agreements.At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to continue joint efforts aimed at expanding bilateral trade, strengthening food security, and enhancing investment cooperation between Kazakhstan and Kuwait.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-kuveyt/press/news/details/1270033?lang=ru

In 2025, Aktau hosted the "Ecology and Tourism: Acting Together!" seminar, bringing together tour operators, guides, representatives of the Mangystau Region Tourism Department, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management, and the Eco Mangystau NGO.The seminar focused on promoting sustainable tourism, preserving the cleanliness of natural attractions, and improving tourism infrastructure. Participants agreed on a number of practical measures, including installing more waste containers in natural and recreational areas, developing sanitation facilities along tourist routes, strengthening environmental monitoring, increasing the responsibility of local authorities, and integrating the principles of the "Taza Kazakhstan" initiative into the daily work of tourism businesses.The participants emphasized that cleanliness, respect for nature, and well-developed infrastructure are essential components of Mangystau's sustainable tourism development and visitor experience.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270036?lang=ru