News
Ready-made documents with delivery: residents of the Abay region can receive them at a convenient address 07.08.2026
Residents of the Abay region can take advantage of the document delivery service and receive government service results at a convenient address—home, work, or any other specified location. This service eliminates the need for repeated visits to the Public Service Center or Specialized Public Service Center and is becoming increasingly popular among residents of the region, reports the Abay Region branch of the State Corporation "Government for Citizens."When applying for services at the Public Service Center, delivery can be requested immediately upon submitting the application. Once the document is produced, a courier will deliver it to the specified address. The service costs 1,036 tenge. Document delivery is available for 15 government services, including the issuance of archival certificates, birth and divorce registration, restoration of records and reissuance of civil status certificates, issuance of duplicate educational documents, and apostille certification of official documents.Document collection options from Specialized Public Service Centers have also been expanded. Residents of the region no longer need to revisit the Specialized TsON to receive their completed driver's license, vehicle registration certificate (registration certificate), or state registration plates. If an application was submitted at the Specialized TsON or online, after receiving an SMS notification from 1414 that the document is ready, simply arrange delivery through the TsON mobile app and specify a convenient address. The cost of delivery of completed documents from the Specialized TsON in the Abay region is 6,306 tenge.This service is especially convenient for working citizens, parents with small children, the elderly, and residents of remote communities, as it allows them to receive their completed documents without a second visit to the service center."Today, residents of the region can choose the most convenient way to receive their completed documents. We strive to make government services as accessible and convenient as possible for everyone, and we are confident that the demand for this delivery service will only grow," noted Zhibek Zhadrina, Director of the Abay branch of the State Corporation "Government for Citizens."Please note that when delivering documents, the courier will ask you to present identification and provide the confirmation code from the SMS.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/abay-kurchatov/press/news/details/1270462?lang=ru
The Armed Forces launched a challenge to read the works of Abai 07.08.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1270426?lang=ru
Execution of cameral control notifications on value added tax 07.08.2026
Effective January 1, 2026, changes in the procedure for conducting cameral control entered into force across the Republic of Kazakhstan. The primary objective of the updates is to enhance the efficiency of tax administration, ensure the timely identification of tax risks, and provide taxpayers with the opportunity to independently rectify detected non-compliance without tax audits.In 2026, particular emphasis is being placed on monitoring the accuracy of Value Added Tax (VAT) calculations. Since the beginning of 2026, the State Revenue Offices of EKR have issued 822 of notifications of cameral control to taxpayers regarding form 300.00 declarations, addressing the understatement of taxable turnover and the overstatement of deductible purchases of goods, works, and services for VAT purposes. The issuance of these notifications was triggered by discrepancies identified between tax reporting, electronic invoices, and other information databases.According to tax legislation, the taxpayer is obliged to execute the notification within 30 working days from the day following the date of its receipt. The notification can be executed either by submitting additional tax declarations to rectify the identified non-compliance or by submitting reasoned, documented explanations confirming the absence of violations. The most common reasons for sending VAT notifications are:Understatement of VAT on goods, works, and services sold, identified by comparing electronic invoices issued to buyers, as well as sales registers № 300.07 and (or) and transaction data transmitted via Online Cash Registers (Online-CRM).;During cameral control, an overstatement of the VAT amounts attributed to the offset was established;Overstatement of the offset for goods purchased through import with VAT at customs clearance (based on Declarations for goods);An arithmetic error when filling out the VAT declaration, resulting in an understatement of the amount of VAT payable to the budget, or an overstatement of the amount of VAT excess credited over the amount of the accrued tax.If the taxpayer agrees with the results of the cameral control it is recommended to promptly submit an additional tax declaration and, where applicable, remit the additional tax and fee amounts. Submitting explanations or filing corrective tax reports serves as the basis for concluding the cameral control procedure.Failure to execute the within the prescribed timeframe may lead to the enforcement of administrative measures to compel compliance with tax obligations, as well as the initiation of a comprehensive tax audit under circumstances established by tax legislation.The practice of 2026 shows that timely execution of notifications makes it possible for taxpayers to minimize tax risks, avoid tax audits and ensure the reliability of submitted tax reports. Cameral control remains one of the most effective tools for preventing tax violations and ensuring full budget revenues for state revenue agencies.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-vko/press/news/details/1270428?lang=ru
A regular meeting of the city's three-state commission was held in Astana. 07.08.2026
Employees of the Department of State Revenue in Astana took part in the regular meeting of the City Tripartite Commission on Social Partnership and Regulation of Social and Labor Relations with the participation of representatives of the parties to the social partnership and government agencies. The meeting was held in the Akimat of Astana city under the chairmanship of Deputy Akim of the city of Meyrkhan E.S.During the meeting, reports on the implementation of the City Agreement between the Mayor's Office of Astana, authorized representatives of employers and territorial associations of trade unions for 2024-2026 were heard. The participants also received a presentation on the activities of the Territorial Association of Trade Unions "Trade Unions of Astana city".Following the meeting, relevant decisions were taken and specific instructions were given to responsible government agencies and parties to the social partnership aimed at further strengthening social and labor relations and ensuring compliance with labor legislation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1270340?lang=ru
Preliminary measures related to ensuring the fulfillment of a tax obligation 07.08.2026
Before applying the methods of ensuring the fulfillment of a tax obligation in cases provided for by the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the tax authority shall take preliminary measures to ensure the fulfillment of a tax obligation by submitting:- notices from the tax authority;- notifications from the tax authority of an informational and preventive nature;- notifications from the tax authority of a mandatory nature.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1270323?lang=ru
The "100 Sarbaz" reality show is taking place in the Borovoe resort area 07.08.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1270254?lang=ru
Announcement On Conducting the Screening of the Impact of the Proposed Activity 07.08.2026
AnnouncementOn Conducting the Screening of the Impact of the Proposed ActivityIn accordance with paragraph 6 of Article 55 of the Environmental Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the following documents (hereinafter referred to as the “materials”) have been submitted to the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan for conducting Stage 1 of the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) – impact screening:Explanatory note: Impact Screening of the Proposed Activity for the Project “Adjustment of the General Plan of the City of Ridder, East Kazakhstan Region”;Graphic materials (location of the described territory, reference plan).Developer of the SEA materials:LLP “Project Firm ‘GRADO’”Customer of the SEA materials:Initiator – State Institution “Department of Architecture, Urban Planning and Construction of Ridder City”Authorized body responsible for issuing conclusions on the screening results:Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of KazakhstanThe public (all interested individuals and legal entities) is invited to submit comments and suggestions regarding the following issues:In your opinion, could the implementation of the Project have a significant impact on the environment? If yes, what types of impacts could occur and why do you consider them significant?Do you consider it necessary to conduct further stages of the SEA? What information is of interest to you and why?Do you have any comments or suggestions regarding the Project under development, including those related to possible impacts of the Project implementation on the environment and public health?Deadline for submission of comments and suggestions:from ____ to ____ (10 working days)Contact details:Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of KazakhstanAstana, 8 Mangilik El AvenueDepartment of Environmental PolicyTel.: +7 (7172) 74-08-90, 74-02-83E-mail:b.zhartybaeva@ecogeo.gov.kzn.kunanbayeva@ecogeo.gov.kzComments and suggestions may be submitted:by e-mail to the Ministry’s Office: kense@ecogeo.gov.kz(it is mandatory to confirm receipt of your documents with the Office by phone: +7 (7172) 74-08-44);by e-mail:zhartybaeva@ecogeo.gov.kzn.kunanbayeva@ecogeo.gov.kzSEA materials are available:on the website of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan (section “Activities” → “Main Documents” → “Strategic Environmental Assessment”);on the website of the Akimat. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-ridder/press/news/details/1270251?lang=ru
Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia Discuss Priorities for Multilateral Cooperation 07.08.2026
Riyadh, August 6, 2026 – Within the framework of a working visit to Saudi Arabia, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issagaliyev held talks with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi.During the conversation, the parties positively noted the dynamic development of Kazakh-Saudi relations, based on the principles of friendship and mutually beneficial partnership.Particular attention was paid to cooperation between Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia within international and regional organizations, including the coordination of approaches and mutual support for the two countries’ initiatives in multilateral fora.The parties also reviewed the schedule of upcoming bilateral engagements at the high and highest levels, emphasizing the importance of achieving concrete agreements and practical outcomes.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain an active and constructive dialogue between the foreign ministries of the two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-riyadh/press/news/details/1270207?lang=ru
Tax on the Sale of Property in 2026: When Does Tax Arise on the Profit from a Sale? 06.08.2026
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
Kazakhstan and Türkiye Strengthen Political Dialogue 06.08.2026
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
Heads of Foreign Ministries of Kazakhstan and Romania Hold Telephone Conversation 06.08.2026
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 has summarized the results for the first half of the year: the rate of price growth for socially significant goods has slowed fourfold. 06.08.2026
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
Kazakhstan’s National Product Catalog: clothing and transport lead in the number of registered items 06.08.2026
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, Aktau Hosted the “Uzbekistan – Pearl of the Silk Road” Tourism Forum 06.08.2026
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
Batyrkhan Shukenov's Legendary Song "Otan Ana" Was Performed on the Violin in Kyzylkup, Mangystau 06.08.2026
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
Тhe First Direct Flight from Aktau to Urumqi Was Launched 06.08.2026
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
KazAID and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank Discussed Cooperation Prospects 06.08.2026
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
Mangystau Hosted a Seminar for Owners of Tourist Facilities and Beaches 06.08.2026
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
Proactive work by the Ministry of Finance: quality of tax and customs audits discussed to prevent errors. 06.08.2026
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, Aktau Was Named the Tourism Capital of the Economic Cooperation Organization 06.08.2026
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