News
WHICH ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENSES ARE CONSIDERED CORRUPTION-RELATED? 13.03.2026
The Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Administrative Offenses classifies the following acts as administrative corruption offenses:Provision of illegal material remuneration, gifts, benefits, or services by individuals to persons authorized to perform state functions or persons equated to them, provided these actions do not constitute a criminal offense (Article 676) — entails a fine of 200 MCI (Monthly Calculation Index).Receipt of illegal material remuneration, gifts, benefits, or services by a person authorized to perform state functions (or a person equated to them), either personally or through an intermediary, for actions or omissions within their official powers, provided these actions do not constitute a criminal offense (Article 677) — entails a fine of 600 MCI.Provision of illegal material remuneration, gifts, benefits, or services by legal entities to persons authorized to perform state functions or persons equated to them (Article 678) — entails a fine of 750 MCI.The same actions committed repeatedly within a year after the imposition of an administrative penalty — entail a fine of 1500 MCI.Engagement in entrepreneurial activity by state bodies or local self-government bodies beyond their legislatively assigned functions, or the acceptance of material benefits and advantages beyond established funding sources (Article 679) — entails a fine on the heads of these organizations in the amount of 600 MCI.Failure by heads, executive secretaries, or other authorized officials to take measures within their powers against subordinates guilty of committing corruption offenses, or failure to provide relevant information to the state revenue authorities at the place of residence of the guilty persons (Article 680) — entails a fine of 100 MCI.Hiring persons who have previously committed a corruption crime by heads of state bodies, institutions, enterprises, national companies, or national development institutes (Article 681) — entails a fine of 100 MCI.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhetysu/press/news/details/1180060?lang=kk
Digital Spring "Digital Nauryz": Kazakhstan celebrates Nauryz in a digital format 13.03.2026
For more details about the platform and the event program visit the Digital Nauryz websiteAhead of the Nauryz holiday, the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan is launching the Digital Nauryz online platform, which will consolidate information about festive events across the country.The year 2026 has been declared the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan, and the launch of Digital Nauryz will become one of the symbols of the country's technological changes and digital transformation.The platform is built on the state portal GOV.KZ and will operate from March 14 to 23, bringing together event announcements, news, and live broadcasts of festive occasions in a unified digital space.The website features regional sections for all oblasts of Kazakhstan, allowing users to learn about events in specific cities and regions, access final materials, and navigate to online broadcasts and media publications. The platform supports multiple languages and is equipped with an AI-based translation function, making the information accessible to the widest possible audience.The launch of the project creates a unified digital space for celebrating Nauryz, where traditions of spring renewal merge with modern technologies.For user convenience, a unified banner leading to the Digital Nauryz platform has been placed on the official internet resources of state bodies.Follow the celebration of Nauryz in Kazakhstan online! Source: Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1180065?lang=kk
Инвестиции в экономику Казахстана достигли 22,7 трлн тенге в 2025 году 13.03.2026
По итогам 2025 года инвестиции в основной капитал в Казахстане составили 22,7 трлн тенге, увеличившись на 13% по сравнению с 2024 годом (19,5 трлн тенге). Рост инвестиционной активности зафиксирован сразу в нескольких ключевых секторах экономики.Наиболее динамичный рост инвестиций отмечен в финансовой и страховой деятельности - на 88,4%, до 313,5 млрд тенге. Значительное увеличение вложений также наблюдается в ряде базовых отраслей:в сфере снабжения электроэнергией, газом, паром и горячей водой - на 53,1%;в сельском хозяйстве - на 53%;в обрабатывающей промышленности - на 30,1%;в сфере информации и связи - на 13,4%;в образовании - на 9,2%;в транспорте и складировании - на 9%.Рост инвестиционной активности поддерживается и притоком иностранных инвестиций. За 9 месяцев 2025 года валовый приток прямых иностранных инвестиций в Казахстан составил 14,9 млрд долларов, что на 10,9% больше по сравнению с аналогичным периодом 2024 года (13,4 млрд долларов).Для дальнейшего улучшения инвестиционного климата утверждена Концепция инвестиционной политики Казахстана до 2030 года (постановление Правительства от 31 декабря 2025 года №1185). Документ предусматривает комплекс мер по повышению эффективности системы привлечения инвестиций с учетом новых глобальных экономических тенденций.Ключевой приоритет концепции - привлечение инвестиций в создание конкурентоспособных производств с высокой добавленной стоимостью и развитие несырьевых отраслей экономики.В Казахстане продолжит действовать трёхуровневая система привлечения инвестиций - на внешнем, центральном и региональном уровнях. При этом внедряется комплексный подход к работе с инвесторами: от поиска потенциальных партнёров и проведения переговоров до реализации проектов и их дальнейшего сопровождения.Планируется усилить международное продвижение инвестиционного потенциала страны за счёт расширения сети зарубежных представительств АО «НК Kazakh Invest» и реорганизации действующих офисов.Отраслевые государственные органы совместно с бизнесом сформируют перечень приоритетных инвестиционных проектов, направленных на увеличение валовой добавленной стоимости экономики. Для подготовки и структурирования таких проектов создана Инвестиционная служба (Investment Board) при АО «НИХ «Байтерек», которая будет заниматься в том числе реализацией крупных инфраструктурных инициатив.Для комплексного сопровождения инвесторов создаётся Kazakhstan Investment House - единый центр по принципу «одного окна», объединяющий ключевые институты развития и обеспечивающий ускоренное и прозрачное прохождение инвестиционных процедур.Особая роль в привлечении инвестиций отводится регионам. Планируется усилить работу региональных инвестиционных штабов, повысить качество подготовки инвестиционных проектов и обеспечить развитие необходимой инфраструктуры.Социально-предпринимательские корпорации будут трансформированы в региональные институты развития, ориентированные на формирование отраслевых кластеров и эффективное управление активами. Одновременно будут упрощены процедуры для инвесторов в рамках специальных экономических и индустриальных зон.Дополнительные меры направлены на усиление защиты прав инвесторов. Функции Инвестиционного омбудсмена передаются Генеральному прокурору. Для участников так называемого «зелёного коридора» будет внедрён ускоренный порядок получения государственных услуг.Кроме того, в регионах будут назначены инвестиционные прокуроры, которые обеспечат правовое сопровождение реализации инвестиционных проектов.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1180021?lang=kk
Ambassador Beibut Atamkulov met with the Adviser to the President of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues Aziz Abdukhakimov 13.03.2026
A meeting was held between the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan Beibut Atamkulov and the Adviser to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues – Chairman of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change Aziz Abdukhakimov.The parties discussed topical issues of cooperation in the field of ecology and environmental protection ahead of the upcoming Regional Ecological Summit in Astana.It was emphasized that the Heads of State attach great importance to environmental issues and to the development of joint solutions aimed at strengthening regional environmental cooperation in Central Asia.The participants exchanged views on cooperation in improving air quality, expanding greening initiatives and restoring natural ecosystems.The progress of the national greening programs “Taza Kazakhstan” and “Yashil Makon” was reviewed. The parties noted the similarity of these initiatives, which contribute to fostering a culture of careful and responsible attitude toward nature in society.The Head of the diplomatic mission informed that the draft of the new Constitution of Kazakhstan places particular emphasis on the protection of the environment and natural resources.Abdukhakimov, referring to the issue of air pollution, particularly in large megacities and urban agglomerations, highlighted the importance of Uzbekistan’s initiative to establish the “Clean Air” consortium in Central Asia.Cooperation in the field of water resources was also discussed separately. The Ambassador informed the Uzbek side about the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations.The participants highly appreciated the relevance of this initiative for addressing water supply challenges amid the growing scarcity of water resources and noted that such an organization would be important not only for Central Asia but also for the international community as a whole.During the meeting, Ambassador B. Atamkulov also visited the Situation Center for Environmental Monitoring, which in real time analyzes the environmental situation, monitors air quality, identifies sources of pollution and performs other related tasks.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tashkent/press/news/details/1179960?lang=kk
Measures applied to tax arrears 13.03.2026
Since 2026, the amendments made to the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan are aimed at preventing tax arrears and ensuring their timely collection.In accordance with the amendments, if tax arrears exceed the established threshold, compulsory collection measures are gradually applied to taxpayers.Debt thresholdsIf the tax debt exceeds 20 MCI (86,500 tenge):- In accordance with Article 86 of the Tax Codespending operations on bank accounts and the taxpayer's cash desk are suspended.- In accordance with article 185debt collection is carried out at the expense of funds in bank accounts.If the tax debt exceeds 45 MCI (194,625 tenge):- In accordance with Article 87 of the Tax Code, a limitation is imposed on the taxpayer's property within the amount of the debt.- In accordance with article 186Debt collection is carried out at the expense of accounts receivable.- In accordance with article 187the debt is collected by selling the property on which the restriction of the order is imposed.These measures are aimed at:- prevention of tax arrears- ensuring timely receipt of funds to the budget- strengthening tax discipline.(unofficial translation)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1179974?lang=kk
Казахстанский опыт применения цифровых технологий в борьбе с наркопреступностью представлен на площадке ООН 13.03.2026
Vienna, 11 March 2026 - On the margins of the 69th session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, Kazakhstan delegation organized a side event titled «The Digital Shield: The Role of Innovative Technologies in Detecting Illicit Drug Trafficking and Laundering of Criminal Proceeds». The event was co-organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the Central Asia Drug Action Programme (CADAP), and the Foundation for the Internationalization of Public Administrations (FIAP).Mr. Mukhtar Tileuberdi, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the International organizations in Vienna, in his opening remarks emphasized the importance of international cooperation in countering the drug threat. He noted that new technologies can serve as a «Digital Shield», enabling states and international organizations to more effectively detect illicit flows and disrupt the activities of criminal networks.Key speakers at the event included Oliver Stolpe, Regional Representative of UNODC; Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana; and Tobias Jung Altrogge, Secretary General of FIAP.During the side event, representatives of the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Agency for Financial Monitoring presented reports on the process of digital transformation of the drug control system and the introduction of modern technological solutions into the activities of Kazakhstan’s law enforcement agencies. They also outlined the set of measures implemented in the country to combat drug crime, as well as approaches to detecting crimes involving the use of virtual assets, including monitoring suspicious transactions and applying advanced analytical systems.The event also highlighted the important contribution of civil society to drug crime prevention. In particular, representatives of the public foundations «Hak Nazar» and «Esbol Qory» spoke about the role of cooperation between the state and the civil sector in forming a comprehensive approach to combating drugs.More than two hundred participants representing states, international organizations, the expert community, and civil society attended the event. The discussion generated strong interest among participants, confirming the relevance of the topic and the need to strengthen cooperation in this field. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-vienna/press/news/details/1179975?lang=kk
Ambassador Beibut Atamkulov met with the Minister of Water Resources of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Khamrayev 13.03.2026
On March 12, 2026, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan Beibut Atamkulov held a meeting with the Minister of Water Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Khamraev.During the meeting, the parties reviewed topical issues of bilateral cooperation in the field of water resources in the context of the upcoming Regional Environmental Summit and the meeting of the Heads of the Founding States of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS).The parties noted with satisfaction the importance of signing the Agreement on the Joint Management and Rational Use of Transboundary Water Bodies, describing it as another significant step in strengthening Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan cooperation.The need for the early launch of the Working Group on forecasting water availability of transboundary rivers, established following the second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in November 2025, was emphasized.Particular attention was paid to the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations, aimed at consolidating the mandates of UN bodies operating in the field of water resources.The Head of the diplomatic mission provided detailed information to the Uzbek side on the prospects of establishing such a structure within the UN system and its potential effectiveness in addressing transboundary water management issues for the countries of the region.For his part, Sh. Khamraev confirmed his personal participation in the events of the Regional Environmental Summit and the upcoming IFAS meetings. He also expressed readiness for a constructive consideration and support of the initiatives put forward by the Kazakh side.The Minister highly appreciated the measures being implemented in Kazakhstan to introduce water-saving technologies and noted the high level of trust and cooperation between the water management authorities of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.The parties also held a substantive discussion on the current state and prospects of regional cooperation among Central Asian countries amid the growing shortage of water resources, and exchanged views on Uzbekistan’s forthcoming chairmanship in the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tashkent/press/news/details/1179980?lang=kk
Taxpayer's representation in tax relations 13.03.2026
In accordance with the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the interests of a taxpayer in tax relations may be represented by legitimate and authorized representatives.According to Article 39 of the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the legal representative of an individual is a person authorized to represent an individual in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The actions (or inaction) of a legal representative committed on behalf of an individual are recognized as the actions (or inaction) of the individual himself.In turn, Article 40 of the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan defines an authorized representative of a taxpayer (tax agent) as a person representing the interests of a taxpayer in relations with tax authorities and other participants in tax legal relations.For individuals, including individual entrepreneurs and individuals engaged in private practice, the authorized representative acts on the basis of a notarized power of attorney or a power of attorney equivalent to it, executed in accordance with the civil legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.In relation to legal entities or their structural divisions, the representative acts on the basis of constituent documents and (or) a power of attorney, which defines the relevant powers.The taxpayer also has the right to appoint an authorized representative in electronic format by issuing an electronic document through the information systems of tax authorities indicating the powers of the representative.In this case, the actions or omissions of an authorized representative committed on behalf of a taxpayer (tax agent) are recognized as the actions or omissions of the taxpayer himself.(unofficial translation)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1179981?lang=kk
Kazakhstan and Türkiye Discuss Development of Interreligious Dialogue 13.03.2026
Ankara, March 12, 2026 - Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Türkiye Yerkebulan Sapiyev held a meeting with the President of the Religious Affairs of Türkiye, Safi Arpaguş. During the meeting, the parties discussed the outcomes of the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and the promotion of the “Astana 2025 – Peace Declaration” initiative.The sides paid particular attention to the development of interreligious and intercivilizational dialogue, as well as strengthening international cooperation in the field of religion. The importance of the initiatives of both countries in this area was highlighted, and readiness to continue cooperation was expressed. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-ankara/press/news/details/1179990?lang=kk
Kazakhstan presented its initiative to create an international water organization 13.03.2026
Nairobi, 12 March 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Kenya and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the UN Office at Nairobi Barlybay Sadykov took part in a briefing of the UN Environment Secretariat on the initiative of UN-80.During the event, B.Sadykov informed participants about Kazakhstan's initiative to establish an international water organization within the UN, noting that water supply issues are becoming increasingly important on countries' agendas, due to the fact that water is fundamental to environmental sustainability, social stability, and economic development.It was also noted that, within the framework of the current process of reforming the UN system, it is important to begin discussions on the future consolidation of the Organization's mandate in the field of water resources with the aim of transforming the existing disparate frameworks and coordination platforms into a specialized organization on water resources within the UN system.In addition, participants were informed that international consultations on this initiative will take place within the framework of the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana on April 22-24, 2026.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-nairobi/press/news/details/1180009?lang=kk
Kazakhstan reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality at the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women 13.03.2026
New York, March 9-11, 2026 – Kazakhstan delegation led by Elvira Azimova, Chair of the Constitutional Court of the Republic Kazakhstan, took part in the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women.During the Commission's general discussions, Elvira Azimova presented Kazakhstan's experience in strengthening legal and institutional mechanisms that ensure gender equality and empower women. In the speech, Chair of the Constitutional Court emphasized the importance of sustainable development, the role of justice, and a comprehensive approach to protecting women's rights at all levels of public policy.During the Ministerial Roundtable on “Achieving Gender Equality and Empowering All Older Women,” attention was focused on Kazakhstan's practical initiatives aimed at supporting older women, increasing their social activity, and ensuring equal access to legal protection and social services.The speeches made by the Kazakhstan delegation during the session of the Commission underscored the country's commitment to fulfilling its international obligations in the field of gender equality, actively participating in the exchange of experience, and promoting global practices for the protection of the rights of women of all ages, including older women.In addition, during the visit, Elvira Azimova held a meeting with Alexander De Croo, Administrator of the UN Development Programme. The parties discussed strengthening international cooperation in promoting gender equality, as well as the role of the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty as a key hub for implementing sustainable development programmes and expanding partnership coordination in Central Asia.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-kazakhstanun/press/news/details/1180013?lang=kk
The Embassy of Kazakhstan Introduced Students to the Practical Aspects of Diplomatic Work 12.03.2026
11 March 2026. Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Moldova Almat Aidarbekov held a meeting with students of the Faculty of International Relations of the Moldova State University, who are members of the Association of Young Diplomats of Moldova.During the meeting, the Ambassador spoke about the priorities of the foreign policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the role of diplomacy in the development of international cooperation, as well as the key areas of interaction between the Kazakhstan and Moldova.The Embassy staff also delivered presentations for the students on the history, culture and contemporary development of Kazakhstan, as well as on the upcoming republican referendum on the adoption of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Particular interest among the participants was generated by the practical part of the event, during which interactive exercises were organized to familiarize students with the elements of diplomatic work and the specifics of the negotiation process.At the conclusion of the meeting, the students had the opportunity to communicate with diplomats in an informal setting, exchange views and ask questions of interest. The participants noted that the meeting helped them better understand the specifics of diplomatic activity and expressed their interest in pursuing professional development in the field of international relations and diplomacy.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-kishinev/press/news/details/1179939?lang=kk
Pay off the debt and the penalty will be written off 12.03.2026
The Department of State Revenue for the Mangystau region informs about the work on writing off penalties and fines for micro and small businesses.The work is carried out in accordance with the order of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated February 13, 2026 No. 13.Penalties and fines listed on taxpayers' personal accounts as of January 1, 2026, are subject to write-off.A prerequisite is the full repayment of the principal amount of tax arrears in the period from January 1 to March 31, 2026.The write-off will be made based on the results of an inventory of taxpayers' personal accounts.Pay off the principal amount of the debt and the penalty will be written off. Don't miss this opportunity!(unofficial translation)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-mangistau/press/news/details/1179916?lang=kk
Environmental Protection and Water Diplomacy Discussed in Abu Dhabi 12.03.2026
Abu Dhabi, 11 March 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Arab Emirates, Rauan Zhumabek, held a meeting with Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Agency’s Executive Committee.During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat presented an invitation from the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerlan Nysanbayev, to attend the Regional Environmental Summit, which will take place in Astana on 22-24 April this year.Ambassador R.Zhumabek also informed about the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to establish an International Water Organization, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cooperation among countries for the development of global water diplomacy.In this context, the interlocutors noted that the efforts of Kazakhstan and the UAE to advance the environmental and water agenda are complementary, particularly in light of the UAE’s preparations for the international event – the III UN Water Conference scheduled for December 2-4, 2026 in Abu Dhabi. It was highlighted that the actions of the two countries in this area are coordinated and aimed at strengthening international cooperation in sustainable natural resource management.For his part, Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi confirmed the UAE’s readiness to further expand cooperation with Kazakhstan.He also emphasized the environmental importance of the «Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme» being implemented in Kazakhstan, aimed at restoring the population of birds of prey and maintaining ecological balance.At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties noted that upcoming international events could serve as an important platform for developing cooperation and initiating joint projects between the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.Background: Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi is an experienced UAE statesman, who has made a significant contribution to shaping the country’s defence policy and strengthening national security, while also actively participating in environmental protection initiatives.2016–2024 – Minister of State for Defence Affairs of the UAESince 2024 – Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Agency’s Executive Committee.The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi is a government body established in 1996 and responsible for developing and implementing environmental policy as well as protecting natural resources. The Agency works on biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring, and promoting sustainable natural resource management in the UAE.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-abudhabi/press/news/details/1179919?lang=kk
Referendum. Every one of us counts! 12.03.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-mendykarin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1179906?lang=kk
In kyzyltobe rural district, work was carried out to update street lighting. Баспасөз press service of the Office of the Akim of kyzyltobe rural district. 12.03.2026
В деревне Кызылтобе зажгли свечи.In kyzyltobe rural district, work was carried out to update street lighting.Баспасөз press service of the Office of the Akim of kyzyltobe rural district.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-munaily-qyzyltobe/press/news/details/1179866?lang=kk
Information about planned power outages 12.03.2026
Dear consumers!In connection with the work on (major repairs / maintenance/ reconstruction of networks), power outages are planned: overhead line-0.4 kV, overhead line-10 kV, KTP-10/0.4kV. -10 kV "Kr.Partizan-Druzhba 1" KTPG No. 3The work will be carried out on 03/13/2026, in connection with which it is planned to temporarily stop the supply of electric energy to the following addresses/facilities:From 10:00 to 17:00 P. Druzhba streets: Sadovaya, Pionerskaya, Stroitelnaya, Stepnaya, 30 years of Virgin land, 40 years of Victory, 70 years of October, 30 years of Victory.Please prepare in advance for a power outage. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1179883?lang=kk
Adequacy of pension benefits: the importance of early formation of pension savings and regularity of pension contributions 12.03.2026
The concept of "pension adequacy"An adequate pension income is the amount of benefits that allows a person to maintain their usual quality of life after retirement without experiencing significant financial constraints. One of the key indicators determining the adequacy of a pension system is the income replacement ratio (IRR), which measures the proportion of their previous salary that a retiree receives as a pension. According to ILO recommendations, a pension is considered adequate if the IRR is at least 40% of the lost earned income. Currently, in Kazakhstan, this ratio averages approximately 41%.As a reminder, Kazakhstan currently operates a multi-pillar pension system consisting of a basic and solidarity pension (funded by the state), compulsory and voluntary pillars (funded by the contributor's personal pension savings and investment income, as well as employer contributions). At the same time, the state-funded solidarity pension, which only takes into account work experience up to January 1, 1998, is gradually being reduced. In the early 2040s, people without such work experience will begin to retire. These citizens will not receive a solidarity pension, meaning their pension amount will directly depend on the size of their savings.To ensure an adequate pension, three factors are important:accumulation period;regularity of contributions;fullness of contributions.Let's look at each step in order, using calculations.The period of accumulation formationThe earlier a contributor joins the pension system, the longer their savings period, and the greater the amount they will accumulate and, consequently, the greater the benefits from the funded component.The table below provides a comparative calculation showing how the final pension amount may vary depending on the number of years the contributor contributes. The average monthly salary was taken into account..Participation in FPSAmount of savings by retirement age, taking into account investment income (tenge)Amount of monthly benefit from the UAPF in the first year of receiving a pension (tenge)20 years17,687,11395 ,80530 years34,087,138184,63840 years57,422,226311,037 * all amounts are given in 2026 prices. Regularity and completeness of pension contributionsEqually important is the regularity of pension contributions. With regular employee pension contributions (CPC) (12 times a year) and employer compulsory pension contributions (ECPC) throughout a person's working life, a contributor with an average income can expect total pension benefits that will provide an IRR of at least the ILO minimum standard (40%).Calculations of the total pension (based on personal pension savings and the basic pension) show that the regularity of contributions directly impacts the size of the future pension: the more frequently contributions are made, the higher the benefits and, consequently, the IRR.Frequency of pension contributions (number of months per year for which pension contributions are paid) The amount of the first aggregate pension benefit, subject to payment of contributions from the average wageAggregate IRR, subject to payment of contributions from the average wage 6 251,59529% 8 318,50932% 12 452,33835% * all amounts are given in 2026 prices.Thus, with monthly compulsory pension contributions based on average wages, the combined IRR from the funded and basic components will be at least 35%. Contributors who retire during this period will not receive the joint contribution. This component is expected to be replaced by benefits from employer’s compulsory pension contributions (ECPC), thereby achieving an IRR of at least 40%, as required by global standards.The accumulation period and regularity of contributions directly impact the amount of the basic pension component, which accrues upon reaching retirement age and depends on the length of service in the pension system. Beginning in 2023, over a five-year period, the minimum basic pension will be gradually increased annually to 70% of the subsistence minimum (for up to 10 years of service), the maximum to 118% of the subsistence minimum in 2026, and 120% of the subsistence minimum from 2027 (for a total service of ≥ 34 years). Service after 1998 is confirmed exclusively by regular mandatory pension contributions.What else influences the increase or decrease of a pension?Investment income makes a significant contribution to the overall pension amount. As of January 1, 2026, the average accumulated investment income accounted for 41.4% of contributors' total pension savings. An analysis of international practice shows that with full participation in the funded pension system, the share of investment income in individual pension savings can reach 70–80% by the time of retirement.The earlier a contributor joins the pension system and the more regularly and fully they contribute, the greater the impact they will receive from the accumulated investment income. They can also participate in the investment management of their assets. Today, UAPF contributors have the right to choose to transfer up to 50% of their compulsory and up to 100% of their voluntary pension savings to investment portfolio managers (IPMs).Kazakhstanis can make a significant contribution to increasing their pension savings through voluntary pension contributions. You can pay the VPC not only for yourself but also for your immediate family, including minor children. Legal entities can pay the VPC for their employees, including this option in their benefits package. The law provides for VPC tax incentives, the right to transfer the entire amount to the individual entrepreneur's management, and the opportunity to receive benefits much earlier than retirement age—as early as age 50.Early withdrawals of savings can significantly reduce the expected income in retirement. The minimum sufficiency threshold, which remains in the pension account after withdrawals, is the minimum amount of pension savings required to ensure a monthly pension benefit no less than the minimum pension. This assumes that compulsory contributions will be made regularly in the future. In other words, the minimum sufficiency threshold is the minimum required to ensure the contributor, upon reaching retirement age, receives benefits, taking into account the minimum basic benefit, no less than the minimum pension.For the convenience of depositors, the UAPF offers the ability to forecast and plan their desired pension using the "pension calculator" and "personal pension plan" services, which allow them to calculate the level of future benefits and adjust their savings strategy. These services are available on the UAPF website and mobile app.ConclusionThus, retirement is long-term financial planning, and its effectiveness directly depends on the contributor's commitment and awareness. The sooner you begin actively increasing your pension assets, the higher your retirement income will be. UAPF was founded on August 22, 2013 on the basis of GNPF APF JSC. The founder and shareholder of the UAPF is the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan represented by the State Institution Committee of State Property and Privatization of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Trust management of UAPF pension assets is carried out by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In accordance with the pension legislation, the UAPF attracts compulsory pension contributions, employer’s compulsory pension contributions, compulsory occupational pension contributions, voluntary pension contributions, as well as carries out enrollment and accounting of voluntary pension contributions formed at the expense of the unclaimed amount of guaranteed compensation for the guaranteed deposit, transferred by the organization carrying out mandatory guarantee of deposits, in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On mandatory guarantee of deposits placed in second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan", ensures the implementation of pension benefits. The Fund also carries out accounting of target assets and target requirements, accounting and crediting of target savings (TS) to target savings accounts, payments of TS to their recipients in bank accounts, accounting for returns of TS in the manner determined by the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan within the framework of the National Fund for Children program (More details at www.enpf.kz)Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/abay-semey/press/news/details/1184116?lang=kk
Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Sweden discusses constitutional reform with the leadership of International IDEA 12.03.2026
12 March 2026, Stockholm – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Sweden, Olzhas Suleimenov, held a meeting with the Secretary-General of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), Kevin Casas-Zamora, at the organization’s headquarters in Stockholm.During the meeting, the Ambassador informed the IDEA leadership about the current stage of the constitutional reform in the Republic of Kazakhstan, aimed at strengthening the institutional balance, developing the system of checks and balances, and modernizing public administration.Detailed information was presented on the key areas of the reform, as well as on Kazakhstan’s commitment to the principles of legal certainty and democratic legitimacy of the adopted changes.The Secretary-General noted the systemic nature of the ongoing transformations and expressed a positive assessment of Kazakhstan’s efforts to further develop democratic institutions.The parties emphasized the importance of continuing professional and expert dialogue in the field of institutional development and electoral processes.The meeting was held in a constructive atmosphere and confirmed the mutual interest in further deepening cooperation.For reference: International IDEA is an intergovernmental international organization established in 1995 to promote the development of sustainable democratic institutions, improve electoral processes, and support constitution-building in different regions of the world. IDEA has the status of an international intergovernmental organization and cooperates with the United Nations, the European Union, the OSCE and other international structures, serving as an expert and advisory platform on issues of democracy and governance. The organization includes more than thirty member states from Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America and other regions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-stockholm/press/news/details/1179690?lang=kk
