The Kostanay region has reinforced its position as one of Kazakhstan’s emerging hubs of digital transformation through the large-scale “QOSTANAI TECH” festival, which brought together more than 10,000 participants and effectively turned the city into an open technological platform.The event united representatives of business, science, industry, education, and the IT sector, along with students and young innovators. For several days, Kostanay functioned as a live technological ecosystem where innovation was not only presented but actively demonstrated in real interaction with the public.Opening the festival, Akim of Kostanay Region Kumar Aksakalov emphasized that digitalization and artificial intelligence have become the key drivers of regional economic development. Today, the region ranks fourth in Kazakhstan in manufacturing output, with over 70% of its economy generated by this sector. The industrial landscape already includes 145 operational industrial robots, along with the active implementation of digital management systems and AI-based solutions.The agricultural sector has also undergone significant digital transformation: 100% of arable land, 90% of pastures, and 95% of hayfields have been digitized. As a result, losses have decreased by 40%, productivity has increased by 30%, and operational costs have been reduced by 15%.The international program featured TED-style sessions with leading global and national experts. A highlight was an online address by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Rae Kwon Chung, who stressed that the future of education must be grounded not only in knowledge and skills but also in values and sustainable development principles.A defining feature of the festival was its integration into urban space. Public areas across the city were transformed into open innovation zones featuring scientific experiments, engineering demonstrations, robotics showcases, and drone technologies. The Youth Palace was reimagined as an immersive “smart city” environment with interactive digital installations.Strong interest was drawn to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and drone football — a rapidly developing tech sport gaining popularity in Kazakhstan. At the same time, student teams developed AI-based digital solutions and presented prototypes addressing real-sector challenges during a dedicated hackathon.The festival also marked the launch of industrial tourism in the region, offering participants guided visits to major manufacturing sites, including Allur, KIA, and Agromash plants, where they observed full production cycles.“QOSTANAI TECH” ultimately positioned Kostanay not only as an industrial region, but as a growing ecosystem where education, technology, and innovation converge to shape a new economic model for Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1211810?lang=kk

On 23 April A. Arystanov, Chairman of the Board of the Kazakhstan Agency of International Development “KazAID” spoke at a panel session entitled “Sustainable Financing of the Water Sector in Central Asia: Challenges, Opportunities, and Paths for Cooperation”, organised by the Economic Research Institute as part of the Regional Ecological Summit 2026.In his speech, he emphasised that the issue of the rational use and effective management of water resources in Central Asia requires joint action. During his speech, he also cited successful examples of projects implemented by the Agency under the ‘Dostyk: Diplomacy’ programme, which focused on issues of water diplomacy and transboundary water cooperation. In this way, KazAID contributes to the formation of a sustainable ‘water community’ in the region.A.Arystanov also confirmed KazAID’s readiness to participate in ODA projects on sustainable financing of the water sector, building cooperation with Kazakhstani organisations, the IFAS, and international institutions through South-South and trilateral cooperation frameworks.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kazaid/press/news/details/1211730?lang=kk

April 29, 2026, in the East Kazakhstan Region, in the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk, the regional competition "Ecological Culture – Part of Modern Education" was held. The event took place as part of the implementation of the unified educational program "Adal Azamat". The organizer was the Kumash Nurgaliev Higher College with the support of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region.14 contestants participated in the competition – deputy directors for educational work from colleges of the East Kazakhstan Region.The participants presented substantial and practice-oriented materials, including methodological developments: environmental projects, eco-initiatives, eco-lessons, as well as educational events aimed at forming the ecological culture of students.For the guests of the event, a tour of the "Memory of Kumash Nurgaliev" museum was organized, and an exhibition of artistic works executed in oil painting technique, reflecting the natural features of the region, was presented. Furthermore, a fashion show "Second Wind" using eco-friendly materials took place.Following the results of the competition, the winners were awarded diplomas of I, II, and III degrees, and the remaining participants received certificates for participation.The holding of the competition became an important platform for the exchange of experience, demonstration of effective practices, and strengthening of the professional community of educators contributing to the formation of ecological culture in the region's education system.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1211533?lang=kk

The Head of the East Kazakhstan Region, Nurymbet Saktaqanov, held a working meeting with representatives of the company Mobile Telecom Service.Following the meeting, a memorandum of cooperation was signed, aimed at developing the telecommunications infrastructure of the East Kazakhstan Region. The parties plan to expand network coverage, build and modernize base stations, implement 4G and 5G technologies, and systematically eliminate "white spots" in rural and border settlements.Nurymbet Saktaqanov emphasized the importance of providing internet access to tourist zones and new residential areas.The Akimat (regional administration) of the East Kazakhstan Region, for its part, is ready to provide comprehensive support for the projects, including matters related to land allocation and connection to utility infrastructure.The Akim (Governor) of the East Kazakhstan Region gave a number of specific instructions:* Ensure the installation of dual-purpose poles in the cities of Ust-Kamenogorsk, Altai, and Ridder, as well as in the Shemonaikha and Zaisan districts;* Explore the possibilities for connecting antenna-mast structures to the power supply by the end of June.In accordance with the instructions of the Head of State regarding the development of tourism in Eastern Kazakhstan, the regional Akim set the task of providing internet connectivity to the region's tourist zones. Control over the implementation has been assigned to the relevant specialized structures.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1211539?lang=kk

The fastest way (without registration!):Go to the website kgd.gov .kzIn the "Electronic services" → "Business Assistance"section, select "Information on the absence (presence) of tax arrears", Enter your IIN (or BIN for sole proprietor/LLP) and click "Search"You will immediately see all the debts or a certificate of their absence. Other convenient ways:eGov.kz → "Viewing and paying tax arrears" (authorization required)The e-Salyq Azamat app (App Store / Play Market) is the most convenient option for individualsKaspi.kz → Public services → Taxes → "Tax debts" Useful tips:Check the debt regularly — penalties are accrued every dayAfter payment, the database is not updated instantly (sometimes up to 3-5 days)If there are no debts, you can save/print the certificate. (unofficial translation)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1211546?lang=kk

The Department of State Revenue for the Mangystau region reports on the suppression of an attempt to illegally import a large batch of alcoholic beverages.On April 20, 2026, employees of the Beineu customs post, together with the border service of the National Security Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan, identified and seized 84 liters of undeclared alcoholic beverages (168 bottles) during customs control of the Dushanbe–Volgograd passenger train No. 329 at Beineu station.The goods were among the personal belongings of a passenger, a citizen of Uzbekistan, Yu. (born in 1994). The woman tried to move alcohol across the customs border of the Eurasian Economic Union without mandatory declaration and payment of customs duties, hiding it in her luggage.Based on the results of the review of the case materials, the Beineu District Court of the Mangystau region on April 24, 2026 attracted citizen Yu. to administrative responsibility under Article 545 of the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Administrative Offences. She was fined 64,875 tenge (15 monthly calculation indices) with confiscation of the seized goods.The Department of State Revenue for the Mangystau region recalls that the illegal movement of excisable goods, including alcoholic beverages, across the customs border entails administrative liability with confiscation of goods and the imposition of significant fines if these actions do not contain signs of a criminal offense.How much alcohol can be imported legally? According to the rules of the Eurasian Economic Union, one individual over the age of 18 has the right to import for personal use:- up to 3 liters of alcoholic beverages and beer — duty-free;- from 3 to 5 liters — with payment of customs duty (10 euros for each liter over 3 liters);- over 5 liters is prohibited.Compliance with customs regulations is the duty of every citizen crossing the border of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Customs officers in the region continue to work hard to protect the economic interests of the state, prevent smuggling and ensure strict compliance with legislation by all participants in foreign economic activity. (unofficial translation)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1211555?lang=kk

Объявление о начале конкурса «Үздік сапалы қызмет көрсетуші»Агентство по делам государственной службы приглашает государственные органы и организации, оказывающие государственные услуги, принять участие в конкурсе «Үздік сапалы қызмет көрсетуші».Целью проведения данного конкурса является повышение статуса услугодателей, мотивации и укрепления основ клиентоориентированности в работе.Для участия в конкурсе претендентам необходимо предоставить в территориальные департаменты Агентства следующие документы:1) заявление об участии в Конкурсе по установленной форме;2) фотография согласно методическим рекомендациям;3) биография согласно методическим рекомендациям; 4) видеоролик согласно методическим рекомендациям.Более детальная информация о порядке проведения конкурса представлена в методических рекомендациях.Прием документов осуществляется 04.05-14.05.2026г.Контакты для направления документов: 8 708 7464299, ugu505@mail.ruSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay-fedorov/press/news/details/1211577?lang=kk

Творческий тандем           28 апреля в Фёдоровской детской районной библиотеке для  школьников районного центра проведен вечер-портрет «Творческий тандем» с участием приглашенных  писателя Алексея Васильевича Олексюка и  известной костанайской художницы-иллюстратора Нины Сергеевны Олексюк - Коровиной. Гости рассказали о себе, о своём творчестве, а также провели интересные мастер-классы по созданию иллюстраций и стихосложению.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay-fedorov/press/news/details/1211586?lang=kk

On April 22-23, 2026, the city of Samarkand hosted the IV International Conference on Experience Exchange in Public Financial Management with the participation of representatives from financial authorities of certain CIS countries.Olzhas Nukaev, Head of the Risk Management Department of the Committee of Internal State Audit of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, delivered a report on the topic "Budget Risk Management: Kazakhstan's Experience in Digital Audit."The presentation covered approaches to implementing digital audit and risk management systems, including the use of artificial intelligence elements in online budget monitoring. It was noted that these solutions enable the identification of risks and the prevention of violations at early stages of the budget process.The presented experience generated significant interest among the Conference participants. Delegations from several countries highlighted the practical significance of Kazakhstan's digital solutions.The Conference served as a platform for exchanging experiences and discussing modern approaches to improving the efficiency of budget expenditures. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvga/press/news/details/1211594?lang=kk

На заседании Проектного офиса по внедрению Налогового кодекса под председательством заместителя премьер-министра – министра национальной экономики Серика Жумангарина рассмотрены сроки и условия признания доходов нерезидентов Казахстана в виде обязательств по полученным авансам.В ходе обсуждения налоговые органы указали на риски злоупотреблений при увеличении сроков. По итогам принято решение внести изменения в Налоговый кодекс, предусматривающие возможность увеличения срока признания доходов нерезидентов в виде исключения для инвесторов, реализующих крупные инвестиционные проекты, а также для авиакомпаний, приобретающих воздушные суда. Необходимость применения таких исключений будет подтверждаться заключением профильного отраслевого министерства.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1211607?lang=kk

Podgorica, April 29, 2026 - The Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gabiden Temirbek, held a meeting with the Minister of Public Administration of Montenegro, Marash Dukaj.During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for developing Kazakh-Montenegrin cooperation in digital transformation, including public administration, GovTech, civil service modernization, and the application of artificial intelligence.The Montenegrin side was briefed on Kazakhstan’s experience in introducing digital solutions, including the E-Qyzmet system, as well as approaches to the digital transformation of the public sector.The parties noted significant potential for expanding cooperation in these areas, including through the exchange of experience, expert-level contacts, and further development of the legal framework.Minister Marash Dukaj highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation with Kazakhstan in digitalization and expressed interest in studying Kazakhstan’s experience.Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual interest in further deepening cooperation and continuing dialogue on the issues discussed.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-podgorica/press/news/details/1211622?lang=kk

On April 28, 2026, a briefing was held at the Regional Communications Service of East Kazakhstan Region (EKR) on актуальные вопросы налогового законодательства, including the simplified procedure for VAT refund of excess amounts, granting deferrals and/or installment plans for tax, fee, and penalty payments, as well as the bankruptcy procedure for legal entitiesDuring the event, Acting Deputy Head of the State Revenue Department for EKR, Askhat Zhibitayev, informed the media about key changes in the VAT refund mechanism introduced as part of the 2026 tax reform.The new Tax Code has significantly expanded the use of the simplified VAT refund procedure. Refunds are now issued without conducting tax audits—based instead on a tax risk management system.The right to apply the simplified procedure is granted to taxpayers under tax monitoring, as well as companies where at least 50% of turnover comes from zero-rated transactions. If the established conditions are met, VAT refunds are processed within up to 15 working days. These changes aim to reduce administrative burden, support exporters, and stimulate business activity.The briefing also clarified provisions on granting deferrals and/or installment plans for tax, fee, and penalty payments, as предусмотрено статьями 132–134 of the Tax Code. A deferral may be granted for up to 6 months, while an installment plan may extend up to 36 months. These measures apply in cases of temporary financial difficulties faced by taxpayers, provided there are objective grounds such as emergencies, seasonal business activity, or other documented circumstances. In certain cases, deferrals or installment plans may be granted without collateral if specific criteria are met.The Head of the Department for Work with Insolvent Debtors, Sairan Ualibekova, presented information on the bankruptcy procedure for legal entities.Bankruptcy is a court-recognized insolvency that serves as grounds for the liquidation of a company and aims to satisfy creditors’ claims. It is based on sustained insolvency, where liabilities exceed the debtor’s assets.The procedure may be initiated either by the debtor or by creditors and is carried out under the supervision of a bankruptcy administrator, typically lasting up to 9 months. The legislation предусматривает ответственность должностных лиц, including subsidiary liability in cases of deliberate bankruptcy—intentional actions such as asset withdrawal, concealment of property, or falsification of financial statements.At the end of the briefing, representatives of the Department answered journalists’ questions and provided additional clarifications on the practical application of tax legislation norms.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-vko/press/news/details/1211645?lang=kk

The procedure for offsetting and refunding overpaid taxes in 2026In accordance with articles 120-123 of the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the procedure for offsetting and refunding excessively or erroneously paid taxes, payments to the budget, as well as penalties is regulated.The offset or refund is carried out by the state revenue authorities on the basis of the taxpayer's tax statement.An overpaid amount is a positive difference between the amount actually paid and the accrued amount for the corresponding tax, payment to the budget or penalty, taking into account previously made offsets and refunds.The application is submitted in the form approved by the Order of the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated October 28, 2025 No. 637.You can apply in the following ways:through the ISNA Taxpayer's Account;through the eGov e-government portal.kz;via the e-Salyq Azamat mobile app (for individuals);on paper through the Government for Citizens State Corporation.The refund of overpaid amounts is carried out to the taxpayer's bank account within 5 working days from the date of registration of the application in the absence of tax arrears.For all questions, you can contact the state revenue authorities at the place of registration, as well as get advice at number 1414.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-kostanay/press/news/details/1211646?lang=kk

The Office of Desk Monitoring informs and sends the article for publication:"Renting housing in the Republic of Kazakhstan is a common source of income, but it requires compliance with tax legislation.Individuals can carry out activities:1. Without registering an individual entrepreneur:- Suitable in the absence of employees and income up to 360 MCI per year.- Submit a declaration on form 270.00 by September 15 next year and pay the tax by September 25. The rate is 10% of the income.2. Special tax regime for the self-employed:- Income does not exceed 300 MCI per month and there are no employees.- The E-Salyk Business application is used. Personal income tax — 0%, social payments — 4%.3. Sole proprietors with the application of a special tax regime based on a simplified declaration:- Income does not exceed 600,000 MCI per year.- Submit a declaration in the form 910.00, submitted twice a year (until August 15 and February 15). The tax is 4% + social payments."Thus, taxpayers have the right to independently determine the optimal procedure for carrying out activities, depending on the level of income and other conditions, with mandatory provision of timely submission of tax reports and payment of appropriate taxes and mandatory payments to the budget.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-kostanay/press/news/details/1211653?lang=kk

The XIX Regional Spartakiad among civil servants of cities and districts, as well as regional departments and territorial divisions, is ongoing in the East Kazakhstan Region.The event is organized by the Department of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Civil Service Affairs in the East Kazakhstan Region and the Regional Department of Physical Culture and Sports.The main goal of the Spartakiad is to engage civil servants in regular physical activity and sports, promote a healthy lifestyle, and strengthen the positive image of public service.During the latest stage of the competition in swimming, the team of the State Revenue Department of the East Kazakhstan Region demonstrated a high level of preparation and secured first place.We congratulate the participants on their well-deserved victory and wish them continued success!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-vko/press/news/details/1211682?lang=kk

On May 13, 2026, a meeting between Mendykarinsky District Akim G.M. Bekbaev and residents of the Aleshinsky Rural District will be held at the Molodezhnoye school building in the village at 10:00 a.m.In preparation for the meeting, questions from residents are being accepted. Questions and suggestions are accepted via WhatsApp chat at 8-705-162-80-87.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-mendykarin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1211715?lang=kk

An incorrectly filled payment document is one of the most common reasons goods get "stuck" at the border. Even a single-digit error can cause the payment to go unrecognized, preventing the timely release of your customs declaration.Common mistakes when paying to BCC (Budget Classification Codes) 106104, 106201, and 105102: BCC ConfusionPayers often send funds to the wrong code. Here is a reminder:BCC 106104 — Import Customs Duty (distributed among EAEU member states).BCC 106201 — Customs Fees (fixed fee for processing services).BCC 105102 — VAT on Imported Goods (for goods imported from non-EAEU countries). Incorrect State Revenue Authority (SRA) CodeFunds must be sent specifically to the department where the customs clearance is being processed. If the SRA code is incorrect, the payment will not appear in your personal account, and the system will not register the payment during declaration. BIN/IIN ErrorsThis is especially important for companies with branch networks. The payment must be made in the name of the entity listed as the declarant. Insufficient Funds (Exchange Rate Fluctuations)If customs duties are calculated based on a foreign currency, it is crucial to use the exchange rate applicable on the day the declaration is registered. Even a small shortfall of a few tenge due to rate changes can block the release of your goods.✅ PRE-PAYMENT CHECKLIST:Verify the BCC (Budget Classification Code).Double-check the SRA Code (where the goods are being imported).Ensure the payer's BIN/IIN matches the official documents.Pay a slightly higher amount if the exchange rate is volatile.Save your time and avoid stress — check your details before hitting "Pay"! 💻📱Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhetysu/press/news/details/1211500?lang=kk

Attention! Anti-terrorism training has been held. Dear residents and guests of the district! Today, April 29, 2026, an anti-terrorism training camp is being held in the building of the children's and youth sports school located in the district center. During the training, traffic may be restricted in a number of areas of the Kegen village. We ask residents and guests to be understanding and not panic.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kegen-kegen/press/news/details/1211452?lang=kk

In accordance with the work plan of the State Institution "East Kazakhstan Regional Scientific and Methodological Center for Informatization and Development of Education 'Örken'" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region for 2026, the regional stage of the Republican competition "Shanyrak" with preschool children was held on April 29 of this year.According to the regulations, the competition commission, having studied 8 materials submitted to the competition from 8 districts (cities) of the region, summed up the results:1st place – State Communal Enterprise "Kindergarten-Nursery No. 1 'Balapan' of the Education Department for the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region;                                       2nd place – LLP "Bakhytnur" Private Preschool "Balapan" of Zaysan District, State Communal Enterprise "Kindergarten No. 15 'Golden Fish' of the Education Department for the city of Ridder" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region;3rd place – State Institution "Special Kindergarten 'Künshuak' of the Education Department for Ulken-Naryn District" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region, State Communal Enterprise "Nursery-Kindergarten 'Ruchyok' of the Education Department for Glubokovsky District" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region, State Communal Enterprise "Nursery-Kindergarten 'Dänshik' of the Education Department for Samara District" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region;Nomination "Family Promoting Traditions" - State Communal Enterprise "Nursery-Kindergarten 'Katyusha' of the Education Department for Altai District" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region;Nomination "Exemplary Family" - State Communal Enterprise "Kindergarten of Markakol Village of the Education Department for Markakol District" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region.The work of the winner, State Communal Enterprise "Kindergarten-Nursery No. 1 'Balapan' of the Education Department for the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region, has been submitted for participation in the Republican stage of the competition.Congratulations to the winners and we wish them creative success!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1211420?lang=kk

As part of the "Taza Kazakhstan" concept and the unified upbringing program "Adal Azamat," a nationwide tree-planting challenge was organized on April 29, 2026. The main goal of the event was to instill environmental culture in the younger generation, develop a caring attitude towards nature and a sense of responsibility for the environment, as well as support initiatives aimed at its protection.All schools in the East Kazakhstan region participated in the challenge, planting 5,205 trees. The total number of students involved was 6,247.During the event, schoolchildren participated in greening the territories of educational organizations by planting various tree saplings. Additionally, explanatory talks were held with participants on nature conservation, environmental education, and environmental preservation. Teachers informed students about the importance of tree planting and the rules for caring for green spaces, contributing to the enhancement of their environmental literacy.The challenge was not limited to just planting trees — it fostered the development of an active civic stance among students, enhanced teamwork skills, and strengthened love for their homeland. Such events play an important role in cultivating hard work, responsibility, and a caring attitude towards nature in the younger generation.Planting trees is a step towards the future. Protecting nature is a shared duty for everyone. #TazaKazakhstan #AdalAzamat #TreePlantingChallengeSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1211423?lang=kk