St. Gallen, February 9–10, 2026. A representative of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the OSCE participated in the Conference on Combating Anti-Semitism and Intolerance, organized by the Swiss OSCE Chairpersonship in St.Gallen. The event brought together representatives of participating States, international organizations and civil society aimed at development of joint measures to combat discrimination, extremism and manifestations of religious hatred.During the conference, Swiss Foreign Minister and OSCE Chairman-in-Office Ignazio Cassis emphasized that building a shared future of peace and security is “a daily task” calling for a shift “from memory to action” in the fight against hatred and intolerance.In its national statement the Kazakh delegation reaffirmed the country's commitment to the principles of tolerance, mutual respect and interfaith harmony, emphasizing the particular significance of the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held in Astana in September 2025, as a unique international platform for strengthening interfaith dialogue.It was noted that as part of the ongoing constitutional reforms in Kazakhstan a new institution for national dialogue is being established – the People's Council of Kazakhstan – which will become the highest advisory body with the right to legislative initiative and expanded representation of ethnic groups. This mechanism is aimed at further strengthening social harmony and inclusiveness.The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that the development of interreligious dialogue, education, strengthening a culture of respect and preserving historical memory, including the memory of the Holocaust, are key tools in the fight against anti-Semitism and other forms of intolerance. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-vienna/press/news/details/1160695?lang=kk

The Department of State Revenue for the Mangystau region informs that since January 1, 2026, a new Tax Code has been in force in Kazakhstan.One of the key changes concerns the import of goods.The VAT rate is 16%.Applies to all taxable imported goods.Where is VAT paid?VAT on imported goods is paid at the taxpayer's location if the goods are produced for domestic consumption.VAT offset methodFor certain categories of goods, VAT is not paid immediately, but is reflected simultaneously in the accrual and offset in the VAT declaration.The offset method is used if you are a VAT payer and you import, for example: equipment; agricultural machinery; trucks; locomotives and wagons; airplanes and helicopters; ships; spare parts; breeding animals (cattle); artificial insemination equipment.The list includes goods that are not manufactured in the Republic of Kazakhstan or do not cover the domestic needs of the country.Terms of useGoods imported using the offset method:they are not subject to resale (there are exceptions)and can be transferred to financial leasing (except for international)The period of mandatory use:- 5 years — for most products;- 18 months — for agricultural poultry.In case of violation of the conditions, VAT is payable with a penalty charge.What is NOT considered a violation: forced slaughter of animals; deaths within the norms; re-export; de-registration for VAT; write-off due to an accident or malfunction (if there are supporting documents).After the expiration of the period of use: the sale of such goods is not subject to VAT; the transfer to financial leasing is exempt from VAT.The new procedure allows businesses not to divert working capital during import, but requires strict compliance with the conditions.For reference: The list of goods was approved by the Decree of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated 31.12.2025 No. 1199. (unofficial translation)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1160677?lang=kk

As part of the information and explanatory work on the issues of constitutional reform in the Republic of Kazakhstan, lawyers and experts met with representatives of small businesses. The next meeting was held at the "Kyrgy Bazaar", where relevant explanatory work was carried out for individual entrepreneurs - one of the most active and hardworking categories of society. Expert Erdaulet Asanbek noted that under the leadership of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan has entered a new historical period of development. According to him, the updated Constitution defines new foundations for the political, legal and social development of the country. Large-scale changes are a legitimate process arising from the demands of society and the requirements of the times. "The new Constitution is a legitimate continuation of the historical evolution of the Basic Law of our country and is aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the principle of "Strong President - Influential Parliament - Accountable Government". This is intended to limit the excessive concentration of power, strengthen the role of Parliament, develop local self-government, as well as provide for the specific and effective protection of the rights and freedoms of citizens," said Erdaulet Asanbek. During the meeting, the participants were explained that the Constitution is the foundation of statehood and the main document that determines the strategic directions of society's development. Any changes to the Basic Law directly affect the future of the country. The main feature of the ongoing reform is its open and inclusive nature. The draft changes were developed taking into account public opinion and are subject to broad discussion with citizens. This indicates that a new political culture is emerging in Kazakhstan and the level of civic responsibility is increasing. The updated preamble for the first time enshrines human rights and freedoms as the highest priority of the state. Unity, solidarity, interethnic and interfaith harmony are defined as the foundations of Kazakhstan's statehood. Sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity are included among the immutable values. Particular attention is paid to strengthening the principle of secularism of the state. A clear separation of religion and state institutions is established, and the secular nature of the education and upbringing system is confirmed. Also, according to the draft, it is determined that marriage is a voluntary and equal union of a man and a woman. This norm is aimed at protecting traditional values and ensuring the legal protection of the family. The project envisages changes to the system of representative bodies. It is proposed to approve the updated structure of the Parliament, consisting of 145 deputies, as well as to create a new nationwide dialogue platform called the "People's Council of the People of Kazakhstan". This consultative body will represent the interests of the people and have the right to initiate legislation. At the end of the meeting, the participants were reminded that the final decision on the adoption of the new Constitution will be made by the citizens of the country in a nationwide referendum. The business community showed great interest in the proposed changes, expressed support for the new Constitution and expressed their readiness to participate in the referendum.

  From February 10 to 13, 2026, the 171st session of the Global Forum on Customs Matters Related to Transport and Border Crossing Facilitation is being held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva (Switzerland), the 171st session of the Global Forum on Customs Matters Related to Transport and Border Facilitation, as well as the 87th session of the Administrative Committee of the 1975 TIR Convention, are being held.  During the 87th session of the Administrative Committee of the TIR Convention, Kairat Dzhumagulov, Deputy Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, delivered a report on the development of transit transport, the digitization of customs procedures, and the introduction of electronic TIR tools.Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the eTIR procedure as a key element of the digital transformation of customs transit. Kazakhstan is currently testing the integration of national information systems with the international platform. Once the technical work is complete, it plans to join the international system using the TIR electronic carnet. It is expected that digitalization will simplify customs clearance, increase the transparency of procedures, and enhance the reliability of international transport.It should be noted that preliminary information submitted by the carrier via the TIR-EPD system, when filled out correctly, is used as a transit declaration. This eliminates the need to contact a customs broker or provide a financial guarantee. Separate corridors for transit shipments, including TIR, have been set up at border crossing points. In addition, Kazakhstan is introducing digital solutions in rail transit. Since December 2023, a pilot project has been implemented for the automatic registration and issuance of transit declarations without paper documents, based on the integration of the systems of the customs authorities and the national rail carrier. Kazakhstan has confirmed its readiness to further develop the digital tools of the TIR Convention and to cooperate with the customs services of the countries of the Organization of Turkic States.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1160571?lang=kk

Since February 11, 2026, a tracking system using navigation seals has been introduced in the territory of the Eurasian Economic Union. The corresponding decision was made by the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission on September 23, 2025 No. 84.Tracking will be applied to goods transported across the territory of two or more EAEU member States.The implementation of the system will be carried out in stages and will affect transportation by road and rail during customs procedures of customs transit and export, as well as within the framework of mutual trade of the member States of the Union.The use of navigation seals provides participants in foreign economic activity with a number of significant advantages: the number of excessive inspections and additional control measures by regulatory authorities is reduced, cargo is protected from unauthorized opening along the entire route, the transportation process is controlled through a "personal account" in the information system of the National Operator, including the possibility of a single payment for the services of operators of all member states The EAEU.For the state, the introduction of navigation seals is an effective tool for countering the "shadow" economy, suppressing "false transit" and "false export" schemes, ensuring fair competition and stable receipt of tax payments to the country's budget. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, the national operator of the transportation tracking information system is the Institute of Space Engineering and Technology LLP (Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated September 10, 2024 No. 731). The national operator is authorized to interact with the regulatory authorities of the Republic of Kazakhstan and operators of other EAEU member states.In order to ensure the continuity of logistics processes and compliance with established transportation deadlines, business representatives, including carriers, forwarders and other participants in the transportation process, must strictly comply with the requirements of the legislation of the EAEU and the Republic of Kazakhstan.Additional information can be obtained from the National Operator, the Institute of Space Engineering and Technology LLP. Contact details of the National Operator: Call center: +7 708 297 6132; +7 777 110 5985; +7(727)3903488 ( vn 331); (727)2217795 (vn 331). E-mail: Info@istt.kz; mail.istt.kz/SOGo; transit@istt.kz. Contact phone number: +7-705-159-96-80.Department of Explanatory Work and contact center State Duma of the Pavlodar regionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-pavlodar/press/news/details/1160577?lang=kk

JSC Otandastar Foundation invites compatriots living abroad and ethnic Kazakhs worldwide to take part in a free online dombra course.Course Highlights:Interactive lessons held via Zoom• A 3-month intensive program (Beginner and Advanced groups)• Instruction from a qualified professional teacher• A certificate awarded to participants who successfully complete the course⚠️ Important requirement: Each participant must have their own instrument (dombra).📅 Program Details:Registered participants will be placed into groups according to their skill level. Classes will begin in March 2026. The exact schedule will be shared with participants at a later date.Spots are limited. To apply, please complete the registration form using the link below:👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSewMRUIaSygSQMrVvL0KDMYAvsllwkkb6DVO51fc3HVf-Q9yg/viewform?usp=publish-editorFor more information:📞 WhatsApp: +7 700 671 90 33 (Maral)📞 WhatsApp: +7 705 664 72 11 (Zhandos)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-london/press/news/details/1160590?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1160528?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1160522?lang=kk

Al-Kuwait, February 11, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Kuwait Yerzhan Yelekeev held a meeting with Minister of Oil of the State of Kuwait Tariq Al-Roumi.During the meeting, the Kazakh side emphasized that the Republic of Kazakhstan is consistently implementing a policy aimed at deepening the processing of hydrocarbon resources and expanding the production of high value-added products, in line with the priorities set by the President of the country, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.Within the framework of the meeting, Ambassador Yerzhan Yelekeyev invited the Kuwaiti side to consider participation in investment projects in Kazakhstan’s oil refining sector, including the construction of a fourth oil refinery, which is currently under consideration at the level of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Minister of Oil Tariq Al-Roumi confirmed Kuwait’s interest in developing cooperation with Kazakhstan and informed that the Kuwaiti side intends to begin studying prospective investment projects in the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan within the current year.During the negotiations, the Ambassador handed over to the Minister of Oil an invitation letter on behalf of the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerlan Akkenzhenov, to participate in the 30th anniversary Kazakhstan International Oil & Gas Exhibition and Conference (KIOGE), which will take place on 30 September – 1 October this year in Almaty.The parties confirmed their readiness to develop practical cooperation in the oil and gas sector, including the elaboration of investment initiatives and the exchange of experience in hydrocarbon processing and petrochemicals.State of Kuwait is one of the key players in the global oil market: in recent years, the country’s oil production has amounted to approximately 2.5-2.9 million barrels per day (over 120 million tons per year). Kuwait has extensive experience in developing oil refining and petrochemical industries and consistently promotes projects aimed at producing high value-added products. One of the largest examples is the Al-Zour refinery complex with a capacity of around 615 thousand barrels per day – one of the largest refineries in the Middle East. Investment in the construction of the refinery itself is estimated at approximately USD 14-16 billion. The refinery is designed for deep oil processing and the production of a wide range of products, including low-sulfur fuel for power plants, diesel fuel, kerosene and jet fuel, as well as other petroleum products that meet modern environmental standards and export requirements. The complex plays a key role in Kuwait’s strategy to develop hydrocarbon processing, increase exports of petroleum products and expand the production of high value-added products.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-kuveyt/press/news/details/1160455?lang=kk

  The Regional Communications Service held a briefing "Transitional provisions on special tax regimes."During the briefing, Nazgul Ayupova, Head of the Department of State Revenues in the Akmola Region, said that on January 1, 2026, a new Tax Code came into force, which provides for three special tax regimes (SNR): From January 1, 2026, instead of the seven previously existing options, there are three universal special tax regimes (SAR):SNR for the self-employedSAR based on simplified declarationSNR for peasant farms (peasant farms)SNR for the self-employedWho can apply: individuals without the status of individual entrepreneurs and without employees.Income: up to 300 MCI per month (≈ 1.3 million tenge/15 million tenge per year).Tax burden: 4% of income (social payments), IPN is not paid.Reporting: no declaration - calculation is generated automatically by checks in the eSalyq Business mobile application.SAR based on simplified declarationIncome: up to 600,000 MCI per year (≈ 2.5 billion tenge).Employees: there are no restrictions on the number.PPI rate: 4% with the possibility of its increase/decrease by maslikhats by 50%.Reporting: Form 910.00 twice a year.Benefits:o the right to reduce the tax burden on the amount of the wage fund with income> 24,000 MCI;o Accounting is not required if revenue is <135,000 MCI.VAT: not applicable.Restrictions: a list of prohibited activities is established.CHR for CPHType of activity: agriculture (own or leased land is required).Tax: 0.5% of turnover, paid as IPN (ESN abolished).Exemption: from VAT, social tax, property and transport taxes used in agricultural work.Reporting: declaration 200.00 once a year.If the conditions are met and the desire to apply the SAR on the basis of a simplified declaration by March 1, 2026, payers must send a notice of the applicable tax regime with a mark in the 2nd section "on the transition to" and the date of application of such a SAR will be January 1, 2026.In order to support entrepreneurs and improve the quality of accounting and tax accounting, the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan is holding an action "People's Accountant."        The promotion is held from January 5, 2026 and will last until June 30, 2026.        "People's Accountant" is a free advisory assistance for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses.            Work schedule in the first months of January-February 2026 consultations 3 times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) from 10:00 to 13:00. Since March 2026, consultations 2 times a week.         Within the framework of the action, consultations are held by professional accountants and auditors, representatives of professional accounting associations and, to clarify the norms of the legislation, the most experienced employees of the Department of State Revenues.  In Akmola region, the action is held at the State Revenue Department in Kokshetau at Kokshetau pr. Nazarbayeva 21A.Video consultations and telephone communication between district and city departments during reception hours are also provided.      In addition to face-to-face consultations, entrepreneurs will have access to:          - online consultations through official resources;          - webinars (online and offline);          - thematic consultation sessions during reporting periods.The People's Accountant campaign is a step towards the transition from a control model to taxpayer service support.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-akmola/press/news/details/1160423?lang=kk

Oslo, February 12, 2026 – The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Norway Adil Tursunov held a meeting with Members of the Storting (Norwegian Parliament), leadership and members of the Norwegian Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Lise Selnes, Morten Kolbjørnsen and Jone Blikra.The Ambassador informed lawmakers in details about the progress of political and economic reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan, which were initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. They also discussed the upcoming referendum on adopting a new Constitution, as well as the current state and prospects of relations between Astana and Oslo.The participants emphasized the importance of enhancing parliamentary diplomacy within the broader context of Kazakh-Norwegian cooperation, both bilaterally and within multilateral institutions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-oslo/press/news/details/1160426?lang=kk

In Kazakhstan, the Day of Remembrance of Internationalist Warriors is observed annually on February 15. Among those who performed their military duty in Afghanistan.The event began with a minute of silence in memory of those who did not return alive from Afghanistan. On February 15, 1989, the last unit of the USSR's 40th Army left this republic. The withdrawal of the Soviet contingent from Afghanistan began on May 14, 1988. Soviet troops were on the territory of this country for nine years, one month, and nineteen days — from 1979 to 1989.As part of this event, a meeting was held at the Palatsyn rural library with students and participants of the Afghan war, Zhuraghotov T. and Amrenov R.The veterans of the Afghan war shared their combat memories and expressed gratitude.Words of recognition and gratitude were expressed to them for their courage and perseverance shown during the performance of their military duty.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-samar-palatcy/press/news/details/1160369?lang=kk

A meeting dedicated to Kazakhstan was held at the prestigious and long-established intellectual center “Antelyas” in Lebanon. The gathering brought together prominent representatives from the fields of education, science, and the press. Participants were presented with an overview of Kazakhstan’s past and present, as well as the current state and key issues of its relations with the Arab world. During the subsequent session of questions and answers and exchange of views, Lebanese intellectuals demonstrated a strong awareness of Kazakhstan - and Central Asia more broadly — in terms of history, culture, and the current complex geopolitical environment. They expressed genuine interest in revitalizing bilateral cooperation and affirmed their willingness to actively contribute to this effort.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-beirut/press/news/details/1160313?lang=kk

To schedule an appointment for visa processing to the Republic of Kazakhstan, notarial services, civil status registration (birth, death, marriage or divorce), obtaining an electronic digital signature (EDS), and other consular matters, please follow the link.Payment for consular services is accepted in US dollars through Garanti BBVA Bank branches or the mobile application using the following details:IBAN: TR840006200127500009084644Beneficiary: Kazakistan Cumhuriyeti İzmir BaşkonsolosluğuConsular fee rates.Important: payments made through other banks or their applications are not accepted.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-izmir/press/news/details/1160322?lang=kk

A traditional archery competition dedicated to Internationalist Warriors' Remembrance Day was held in the Samara district of the East Kazakhstan region. The tournament brought together approximately 30 athletes from rural districts of the district. A key feature of the competition was the absence of age restrictions—senior and youth participants shared the same venue.According to Yernazar Sauykh, Director of the District Youth Center, such events promote the development of traditional sports and help identify the strongest archers."This sport is currently actively developing in the district. We regularly hold tournaments and plan to bring the strongest athletes to larger competitions," noted Yernazar Sauykh.Abay Damir Dautov, a tournament judge and archery coach from the neighboring Kokpekty district of the region, emphasized the high potential of Samara's youth."The tournament was held at a high level. It's clear that the athletes have an interest and desire to develop in this field." I believe the Samara region has a great opportunity to develop its own archers and reach a higher level. The most important thing is to provide timely support, train more, and hold such tournaments regularly," the coach noted.Ademy Sabazowa, an 11th-grade student from the village of Mirolyubovka who won bronze at the tournament, also shared her impressions."I've been practicing archery for two years now. First, I participated in women's competitions in our village, then I took first place at a tournament in the neighboring Kokpekty district, and now I dream of achieving even better results. I love this sport—it's our heritage, and it needs to be revived," the student said.The tournament was held in an atmosphere of athletic competition and respect for historical traditions. Its main goal was to popularize national sports and preserve cultural heritage. Following the competition, the winners were awarded diplomas and cash certificates.Press Service of the Akim of the Samara RegionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-samar/press/news/details/1160344?lang=kk

Helsinki, February 11, 2026 – the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Finland, together with the Embassies of Türkiye and Uzbekistan, the House of Azerbaijan, Finnish Islamic Congregation, as well as representatives of the Kyrgyz and Tatar diasporas, held a ceremonial event in Helsinki dedicated to the World Day of the Turkic Languages Family.The celebration of the World Day of the Turkic Languages Family gained special significance after UNESCO officially included this date in the international calendar of commemorative days in 2025, highlighting the rich cultural and historical heritage of Turkic peoples and the unique contribution of Turkic languages to world civilization.In his remarks, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Finland, Azamat Abdraimov, noted that Turkic languages are an essential part of the shared historical memory and spiritual closeness of Turkic nations. He emphasized that for Kazakhstan, the promotion of Turkic cultural heritage and the preservation of close ties with brotherly countries remains one of its priority directions. According to him, the World Day of the Turkic Languages Family is not only a celebration of our common culture, but also a symbol of cooperation, mutual respect, and the aspiration toward shared development.The event was attended by representatives of the Finnish Parliament, the Ministry of Education, the business community, research institutes, as well as cultural figures and representatives of public organizations.In addition, the program featured musical performances by the participants. Guests had the opportunity to hear pieces played on national instruments, including the dombra, jetigen, kobyz and other traditional instruments, which added a special atmosphere of cultural unity and diversity to the celebration.The participants expressed their gratitude to the organizers for creating a platform that strengthens ties between Turkic peoples, as well as for the opportunity to introduce the Finnish public to the richness and diversity of Turkic culture.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-helsinki/press/news/details/1160355?lang=kk

The staff of Parasat College in Shymkent gathered to discuss the constitutional reforms underway in our country and held a meeting on the new Constitution. During the event, Adilbek Kanybekov, a senior lecturer at the Law Department of the Central Asian Innovation University, made a report and extensively discussed the changes and additions proposed in the new edition of the Constitution. In his speech, he noted that current global geopolitical changes, the rapid development of science and technology, as well as the rise of public demands to a new level, require the modernization of the legal system. According to the Speaker, the current Constitution has fulfilled its historical mission with honor in its time. However, in the digital era, new legal norms are needed. In particular, special attention to the field of education and science will give a new impetus to the development of human capital. During the meeting, it was noted that the draft new Constitution envisages systematic changes aimed at preserving traditional national values and strengthening the institution of the family. Participants assessed these initiatives as an important step in the development of society. At the end of the event, college teachers and students expressed their support for the Constitutional reform and called on citizens of the country to actively participate in the nationwide referendum scheduled for March 15.

In Almaty, the antimonopoly body summed up the results of the work carried out to suppress violations of competition. As a result of the investigation, the main measures of influence were taken on nine cases of abuse of a dominant or monopolistic position. This was stated by Nurzhan Nurlanuly, Head of the Almaty Department of the Agency for Protection and Development of Competition of the Republic of Kazakhstan, at a press conference held at the Regional Communications Service. According to him, the department's priority is to develop fair competition, protect the rights of an unknown group of consumers and entrepreneurs, and prevent situations that cause unreasonable losses for businesses and the population. "We are paying attention to the situation in the market and conducting investigations in places where competition is being suppressed. Our task is to create an equal and open environment for all participants. This will directly affect prices, quality of services and the investment climate in the city," says Nurzhan Nurlanuly. One of the cases that caused a huge stir was the investigation into the wholesale electricity market involving Almaty Electric Power Plants JSC. It was revealed that the company, despite the fact that it was technically unable to provide this service in the Almaty industrial zone, obliged the electricity supplier to provide it through a subsidiary's network and purchase it along with additional services. This imposed an additional burden on 118 enterprises operating in the zone, as well as residents with a total investment of more than 400 billion tenge. "Such conditions practically negate the effectiveness of state support aimed at reducing energy costs. If the court recognizes the department's conclusions as legitimate and a final decision is made, the rights of more than a hundred entrepreneurs will be protected," the speaker noted. An investigation is also underway into the airline FlyArystan. The department found that the carrier charged the same fee for excess baggage regardless of the actual excess weight. "We see that there is a practice of differentiated payment in the market based on actual excess weight. Refusal of this approach, in our opinion, restricts the rights of an unknown group of consumers. Therefore, an investigation has been launched against the airline," said Nurzhan Nurlanuly. Another example concerns INVIVO Business LLP. The franchise agreement contains provisions restricting cooperation with competitors for 24 months after the termination of the contract. After the warning was issued, the company removed the relevant clauses. As a result, the rights of 143 entities operating in the laboratory services market in 16 cities of the country were protected. In the field of heat supply, the department also revealed a violation of the law by Almaty Heat System LLP: when reconnecting to heat energy, a 10% profit was added to the tariff, while the current rules provide for reimbursement of only actual costs. As a result, the cost of services for Almaty residents was reduced by 10%.

In Almaty, the antimonopoly authority summarized the results of its efforts to curb competition violations. Following investigations, primary measures were taken in response to nine cases of abuse of a dominant or monopolistic position. This was announced by Nurzhan Nurlanuly, Head of the Almaty Department of the Agency for the Protection and Development of Competition of the Republic of Kazakhstan, at a press conference of the Regional Communications Service. According to him, the department's priority is *developing fair competition*, protecting the rights of *an indefinite circle* of consumers and entrepreneurs, and preventing practices that create unjustified costs for businesses and the public. "We consistently respond to market signals and conduct investigations where there are signs of pressure on competition. Our goal is to ensure equal and transparent conditions for all participants. This directly impacts prices, service quality, and the city's investment climate," noted Nurzhan Nurlanuly. One of the high-profile cases was the investigation into JSC Almaty Electric Stations in the wholesale electricity market. It was established that the company obligated the energy supplier to purchase electricity with the additional service of transmission through the networks of an affiliated company, despite the technical impossibility of providing such a service within the Almaty Industrial Zone. This created an additional burden for residents of the zone, which is home to 118 enterprises with a total investment of over 400 billion tenge. "Such conditions effectively negated government business support measures aimed at reducing energy costs. The court upheld the department's findings, and if the ruling is final, the rights of over 100 entrepreneurs will be protected," the speaker emphasized. An investigation is also underway against Fly Arystan Airlines. The Department found that the carrier charged the same fee for excess carry-on baggage, regardless of the actual excess. "We see a practice in the market of differentiated payment for actual excess baggage. Abandoning this approach, *in our opinion*, infringes on the rights of an unspecified group of consumers, which is why an investigation has been launched against the airline," said Nurzhan Nurlanuly. Another example concerns INVIVO Business LLC, where the franchise agreements contained restrictions on cooperation with competitors for 24 months after the agreement was terminated. Following the notification, the company eliminated the relevant regulations, which protected the rights of 143 laboratory services market participants in 16 cities across the country. In the area of heat supply, the department discovered violations at Almaty Heating Networks LLC: a 10% profit was assumed for reconnections to heating power, whereas the regulations only provide for reimbursement of expenses. As a result, the cost of the service for Almaty residents was reduced by 10%.

The Almaty Regional Communications Service held a press conference summarizing the work of the Almaty Department of the Agency for the Protection and Development of Competition of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2025. Nurzhan Nurlanuly, head of the department, discussed key results, identified violations, and measures to promote fair competition. The focus was on protecting the rights of consumers and entrepreneurs, as well as reducing the risks of abuse in the city's commodity markets. According to the speaker, the antimonopoly authority's primary objectives remain promoting competition and preventing and combating violations of the law. To this end, the department conducts market analyses, issues notices and orders, conducts investigations, and, if necessary, takes legal action, as well as coordinating the establishment and operation of state-owned enterprises. "Our work is aimed not only at identifying violations but also at preventing them. We analyze markets, assess the level of competition, and proactively respond if we see risks of dominance or restricted access for businesses and consumers. This approach allows us to systematically improve the market environment," noted Nurzhan Nurlanuly. In 2025, the department completed 14 analyses of competition in Almaty's commodity markets. These included the wholesale and retail markets for aviation fuel, primary housing sales, and wholesale electricity sales. As a result, 23 notifications and 6 orders were issued, 16 investigations were completed, and 16 administrative violation cases were initiated. The total amount of fines imposed and collected exceeded 4.6 billion tenge. The main response measures were taken in response to nine cases of abuse of a dominant or monopolistic position. During the press conference, Nurzhan Nurlanuly cited several examples, emphasizing that the department operates strictly within the law and legal procedures. For example, based on consumer complaints, the company Alseko's activities regarding the generation of utility bills were investigated. The investigation resulted in a legal position that has already been upheld in the court of first instance, and the legal proceedings are ongoing. "It's crucial for us that the interests of residents and businesses are protected. If the court ultimately upholds our position, it will protect the rights of all city consumers. We act carefully and strictly within the legal framework," the department head emphasized. Issues related to the electricity, air travel, laboratory services, and heat supply markets were also examined. In some cases, the department identified conditions that could create additional financial burdens on entrepreneurs or infringe on consumer rights. Notifications were issued to a number of companies, some violations were resolved pre-trial, and investigations into other cases are ongoing. In particular, the measures taken have reduced the cost of reconnecting to heating energy for Almaty residents by excluding profit from the tariff, and also adjusted contractual terms in the laboratory services market, expanding opportunities for fair competition. "Antitrust regulation isn't about punishment for the sake of punishment. It's about balancing interests, transparent rules of the game, and a level playing field for all market participants. Our goal is for both businesses and consumers to feel protected and trust the system," Nurzhan Nurlanuly concluded. The department emphasized that work to develop competition and protect consumer rights in Almaty will continue, taking into account market analysis, judicial practice, and citizen appeals.