Politics
Presidential Decree Expands National Security Committee’s Powers on Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Oversight
Published: 2026-02-13
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree on 9 February 2026 revising the regulation on the National Security Committee (NSC), broadening its mandate across intelligence, counterintelligence, border protection, secure government communications, and state secrets. The NSC is reaffirmed as a special state body that reports directly to the President and leads the unified national security system. Notably, it gains new authority to conduct state oversight in information and communications, with a focus on safeguarding critical information infrastructure. The decree empowers the NSC to issue binding compliance orders for violations related to critical infrastructure cybersecurity, and to carry out inspections of permits and qualifications for the use of special technical tools in information security and operational-search activities, including unplanned checks under the Entrepreneurial Code. The changes take effect immediately from 9 February 2026.
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Regional Coalitions Mobilize Nationwide to Back Draft Constitution Ahead of March Referendum
Published: 2026-02-13
A coordinated nationwide campaign is underway to promote Kazakhstan’s draft Constitution, with regional and city-level coalitions formed across major areas including Almaty, Shymkent, Turkistan, Karaganda, Aktobe, Kostanay, East Kazakhstan, West Kazakhstan, and Almaty Region. These alliances—drawing in five parliamentary parties (Amanat, Auyl, Ak Zhol, Respublica, and People’s Party of Kazakhstan), local councils, NGOs, experts, and youth groups—plan thousands of outreach events to explain proposed changes that expand rights, strengthen rule of law, and rebalance state institutions. Almaty named city assembly chair Meirzhan Otynshiyev as coalition head, while Shymkent appointed Murat Zholdykhozhayev. Turkistan alone expects 1,959 meetings; Karaganda plans 858, Aktobe 1,336, and East Kazakhstan 970. Leaders framed the document as the legal culmination of political reforms and an open, consultative process.
“The new Constitution adapts the state’s legal foundations to modern demands, strengthens accountability across branches, and deepens public trust.” - Meirzhan Otynshiyev, Almaty City Assembly Chair (aikyn.kz)
“Our new Basic Law clearly states that the country’s main wealth is not subsoil, but people and an educated younger generation.” - Erbol Danagulov, Head of Aktobe Regional Coalition (aikyn.kz)
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Senate Ratifies Kyrgyz Property Accords and EAEU–Mongolia Trade Deal as Constitutional Referendum Advances
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s Senate approved agreements with Kyrgyzstan clarifying ownership and long-term leasing of resort assets in Issyk-Kul—covering the Kazakhstan sanatorium, Samal guesthouse, University sports camp, and Olimp sports center—allowing 49-year land leases and upgrades to 3–4-star facilities. Lawmakers also ratified the Eurasian Economic Union’s Temporary Trade Agreement with Mongolia, removing import duties on 367 goods to boost bilateral trade. Separately, authorities confirmed the nationwide referendum on a new Constitution for 15 March 2026, with the draft published 12 February and overseen by the Central Election Commission; overseas voting will be available at embassies and consulates. The government has preliminarily budgeted KZT 20.8 billion for administration. Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev framed the reform as shifting toward a stronger institutional balance of power.
“The new Constitution contains important progressive norms and will give powerful impetus to the country’s development.” - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (egemen.kz)
“Citizens’ proposals were maximally taken into account—this is a clear embodiment of a ‘Listening State.’” - Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev (egemen.kz)
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Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s Defense Ministry cautioned the public about social media ads promising to secure military service exemptions or “white cards” through intermediaries, stressing such schemes are illegal and carry criminal liability for both brokers and conscripts. Authorities clarified that decisions to defer or exempt individuals from compulsory service are made solely by official draft commissions under national legislation. The ministry noted legal services are limited to lawful legal consultation; forging medical documents, falsifying diagnoses, or other illicit methods to evade duty are crimes. Officials also highlighted existing legal supports: conscripts and recent veterans receive loan payment deferrals during service and for two months after, and those who complete service may access education benefits, including priority for dormitory placement and grant opportunities without taking the Unified National Test. Drafts are conducted twice a year for eligible men aged 18–27 under presidential decrees and current law.
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Draft Constitution Elevates Labor Protections and Frames New State–Society Dialogue
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s draft Constitution strengthens legal safeguards for workers and positions human capital and national security as core state priorities, according to members of the Constitutional Reform Commission speaking on Jibek Joly TV. Revisions are designed to bolster mechanisms protecting labor rights, signaling potential updates to labor dispute resolution, workplace standards, and enforcement. Commissioners also outlined the charter’s role in reshaping how government and citizens interact, with an emphasis on transparent engagement and accountability across institutions. The reforms aim to anchor economic development in human capital while aligning security provisions with evolving risks.
“The new Constitution draft enhances mechanisms to protect the interests and rights of working people.” - Abilgazy Kusainov, member, Constitutional Reform Commission (inform.kz)
“Changes in the Constitution will become a new platform for dialogue between the state and society.” - Dikhan Kamzabekuly, member, Constitutional Reform Commission (inform.kz)
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National Coalition Backs Draft Constitution as Regions Launch Outreach Ahead of March Referendum
Published: 2026-02-13
A new National Coalition uniting major political parties, public associations, lawmakers, unions, and youth groups has formed to support Kazakhstan’s draft Constitution, with regional coalitions rolling out extensive outreach before the 15 March referendum. Leaders say the charter elevates human rights, strengthens checks and balances under the “Strong President – Influential Parliament – Accountable Government” model, and refines language policy by stating Russian is used “alongside” Kazakh in state bodies. The process gathered around 10,000 public submissions and was developed over six months by legal and policy experts. Coalition plans include hundreds of regional briefings and dialogues. Expert Aidarkhan Kussainov defended the timeline and professional authorship:
“The Constitution is a legal document requiring a professional approach; it is not obliged to reflect every individual opinion.” - Aidarkhan Kussainov, economist (egemen.kz)
Parliament Speaker Erlan Koshanov framed the draft as the capstone of ongoing reforms centered on human dignity and the rising, educated generation.
“The new Constitution is truly a historic document… written together with the people.” - Erlan Koshanov, Mazhilis Speaker (egemen.kz)
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National Referendum Logistics Finalized for March 15 Vote on New Constitution
Published: 2026-02-13
The Central Referendum Commission approved the operational plan for the March 15 nationwide vote on adopting a new Constitution, setting key dates and procedures. Territorial and precinct commission compositions and polling site boundaries will be published by February 21, with voter notifications on time and place issued from February 27 to March 4. Ballots will be delivered March 12–14; March 14 is a campaign blackout day; voting runs March 15 from 07:00 to 20:00, with results due by March 21. Authorities have compiled 12,416,759 eligible voters across 10,413 precincts, including 82 at 64 foreign locations. Preliminary referendum costs are estimated at KZT 20.8 billion from the Government reserve, largely for precinct commission payrolls. Voter lists can be checked and corrected via local executive bodies starting February 27. International observation invitations will be sent to over 30 countries and election bodies.
“The referendum will ask: ‘Do you accept the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the draft of which was published in the media on February 12, 2026?’” - Nurlan Abdirov, Chair of the Central Referendum Commission (egemen.kz)
“The preliminary estimate for referendum expenses is KZT 20.8 billion… about 75% goes to salaries for precinct commission members.” - Mikhail Bortnik, Member of the Central Referendum Commission (egemen.kz)
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Economy
EBRD and National Economy Ministry Extend SME Support to 2030, Add Mid-Market Growth Track
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of National Economy and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development held the 13th annual coordination meeting on SME support in Astana, confirming program renewal to 2030 and launching a new track aimed at mid-sized companies. Since 2013, the partnership has financed over 2,700 consulting projects, run 300+ training events, created about 10,000 jobs, and seen 17% of participating firms move into the large-business segment—outcomes officials say demonstrate tangible economic impact. The new direction targets investment readiness, scale-up support, and export acceleration for high-potential mid-market firms, with an emphasis on industry, innovation, and international market entry. Participants highlighted the need to expand export tools, bolster industrial upgrades, and back innovative projects. Vice Minister of National Economy Yerlan Saginaev framed the extension as a signal of durable cooperation and results-focused policy.
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KMG Lifts Output, Expands Exploration and Downstream Through $900M+ Program
Published: 2026-02-13
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received KazMunayGas (KMG) Chairman Askhat Kassenov for a briefing on 2025 results and plans. KMG reported oil and condensate output at 26.2 million tonnes in 2025, up 10% year on year, and processed 17.5 million tonnes at its three refineries, lifting light products to 13.6 million tonnes (+1.2 million). The company has intensified frontier exploration, completing eight exploration wells in 2025 and planning 24 more by 2029, with total investments exceeding $900 million. New subsurface use contracts were signed with China’s CNOOC and Sinopec for the Zhylyoi (Atyrau) and Berezovsky (West Kazakhstan) projects, while Turkish Petroleum, BP, and Croatia’s Hydrocarbon Agency study prospective blocks. Gas output is set to increase by 2.3 bcm annually via West Prorva, Central Oriktau, and Rozhkov developments. A $15+ billion portfolio in petrochemicals and gas processing is advancing, and the Kendirli seawater desalination plant (50,000 m3/day) has been commissioned in Mangystau. Following the meeting, Tokayev instructed timely execution of major projects and intensified exploration.
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Over 20 Oil and Gas Blocks in Aral Basin Headed for Auction as Survey Coverage Expands
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s geological survey program is scaling up to international standards with detailed 1:50,000 mapping and a planned exploration footprint of 2.2 million sq km. Following 2024 fieldwork in the Aral Basin, authorities identified more than 20 prospective oil and gas blocks; the Energy Ministry plans auctions this year to grant subsurface use rights. The Geology Committee reports that modern surveys refined deep structural models and assessed hydrocarbon potential, while a separate 2025 state campaign outlined 29 additional prospective sites for metals, including gold and copper. About KZT 240 billion is earmarked over three years for state geological projects, with half of auction and signature bonuses legally directed to geological development and infrastructure. International interest is rising, highlighted by Ivanhoe’s project launch in the Shu-Sarysu sedimentary basin in 2025, signaling broader upstream and minerals exploration opportunities.
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Tax Overhaul Set for 2026 Reshapes Deductions, VAT and Digital Compliance
Published: 2026-02-13
A 2026 tax overhaul will modernize Kazakhstan’s system with broader deductions, progressive elements and full digital oversight, according to a briefing hosted by the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs. A new universal basic deduction of 30 MCI will apply automatically via employer request, replacing paperwork-heavy claims; for citizens with disabilities (Groups I–II), the deduction rises to 5,000 MCI. Progressive thresholds will affect sole proprietors under the general regime and dividend recipients above KZT 1 billion. Property sales will be tax‑exempt only after two years of ownership for real estate purchased from January 1, 2026. Platform workers (taxi drivers, couriers, tradespeople) gain a special 0% tax regime with 4% of income earmarked for social contributions through the e‑Salyq Business app; qualifying patent‑based sole proprietors will be auto‑migrated from March 1, 2026. The base VAT rate increases to 16%, with a 5% rate preserved for medicines and medical devices, and enhanced VAT offsets for dairy processors. Supplier e‑invoices can no longer be unilaterally corrected. Authorities acknowledged data‑migration glitches and target mid‑February completion. Overall, small businesses see relief while large turnovers face higher burdens under stricter transparency.
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Otbasу Bank to Launch Sharia-Compliant Mortgages with Meezan Bank Partnership
Published: 2026-02-13
Otbasу Bank is preparing to introduce Sharia-compliant home financing, signing an MoU with Pakistan’s Meezan Bank Limited during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to Islamabad. The partners plan to co-develop products such as murabaha, ijara, and diminishing musharaka, and to exchange expertise on risk management and compliance. A dedicated working group is adapting Islamic banking instruments to Kazakhstan’s housing savings system and drafting legal amendments to establish a regulatory basis. The initiative targets demand from Muslims who currently rely on conventional loans in the absence of alternatives, while more than two million citizens seek to improve housing conditions. Bank Chair Lazzat Ibragimova said religious constraints deter many from traditional mortgages and positioned Islamic mortgage options as an accessible alternative for those customers.
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Tax Filers Face Feb. 16 Deadline for Q4 2025 Returns
Published: 2026-02-13
Businesses and individual taxpayers must submit tax reports for the fourth quarter of 2025 by February 16, 2026, according to Zakon.kz. The notice signals the formal close of the filing window for quarterly reporting, a standard compliance milestone in Kazakhstan’s tax calendar. While the article provides no additional guidance on submission methods or penalties, companies operating on Kazakhstan’s territory should align internal accounting workflows and ensure documentation is prepared ahead of the mid-February cutoff to avoid potential fines or administrative issues. International firms with local entities may also need to coordinate cross-border accounting inputs and confirm that local representatives have the necessary access to e-filing systems and updated forms. No official statements or individual comments were cited in the report.
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Business Associations Invited to Seek Accreditation to Advise National Bank Policy
Published: 2026-02-13
The National Bank has opened accreditation for business associations representing individual entrepreneurial entities, enabling them to participate in the Expert Council on Entrepreneurship Issues under the regulator. Accredited groups can formally present positions on financial market regulation, access to finance, SME support mechanisms, and regulatory initiatives, potentially influencing policy formation. The process follows the Entrepreneurial Code and rules approved by Order No. 127 dated June 29, 2023. Applications must be submitted by email to [email protected] by February 25, 2026, with the subject line indicating an application for accreditation. The move aims to institutionalize dialogue between the regulator and the business community, improve regulatory quality, and provide a structured channel for market input as the economy digitizes and the financial system grows more complex.
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Diplomacy
Published: 2026-02-13
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met U.S. Ambassador Julie Stufft in Astana to review a broad bilateral agenda, emphasizing momentum in trade, investment, and implementation of high-level agreements. Both sides underscored expanding the “enhanced strategic partnership,” with Tokayev highlighting follow-through on prior commitments as key to resilience in ties. The discussion also covered Kazakhstan’s ongoing political reforms and the forthcoming nationwide referendum on a new Constitution, which the ambassador praised. Engagement under a Peace Council framework was raised as a vehicle to advance stability and international dialogue. The meeting signals continuity in U.S.–Kazakhstan coordination across economic and governance priorities, while pointing to potential new projects tied to previously concluded accords.
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Bilateral Migration Cooperation Treaty with Turkmenistan Moves to Public Consultation for Ratification
Published: 2026-02-13
A draft resolution to ratify the intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in migration between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan has been posted for public consultation on the Open NLA portal until March 2. Prepared by the Ministry of Internal Affairs under the laws on international treaties and migration, the ratification would formalize channels for information exchange and strengthen joint efforts against dual citizenship violations and illegal migration. The agreement aims to improve regulation of cross-border population movements, enhance data-sharing protocols, and create mutually beneficial conditions to prevent offenses in the migration sphere. For businesses and individuals operating across the Caspian region, the framework signals a move toward clearer compliance rules, potentially faster verification processes, and coordinated enforcement between the two neighbors.
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Bishkek Talks Deepen Kazakhstan–Kyrgyz Cooperation with Trade and Energy Push
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev met Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek, reinforcing plans to expand bilateral trade, infrastructure, and energy projects while coordinating in multilateral forums. Japarov highlighted steady momentum in ties, citing joint initiatives in trade, transit, and hydropower, including the Kambar-Ata HPP-1.
“Today, Kyrgyzstan–Kazakhstan relations have gained concrete practical substance, and the interstate political dialogue is actively developing at high and highest levels. Thanks to joint efforts, important projects in trade-investment, transport-transit, and water-energy are being implemented, including Kambar-Ata HPP-1.” - President Sadyr Japarov (inform.kz)
Kosherbayev conveyed President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s greetings and emphasized the strategic priority of scaling commerce, noting bilateral trade reached $2 billion with a target of $3 billion.
“Kazakhstan is among Kyrgyzstan’s three largest trade partners. Mutual trade amounted to $2 billion. The task has been set to increase this figure to $3 billion.” - Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev (inform.kz)
Talks underscored new joint projects—particularly a cross-border industrial trade and logistics complex—plus cooperation in manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and culture, alongside continued coordination at the UN and regional bodies.
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US Temporarily Halts Some Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries, Including Kazakhstan
Published: 2026-02-13
The US Department of State has temporarily paused issuance of certain immigrant visas for nationals from 75 countries, including Kazakhstan, targeting applicants deemed likely to “impose a burden on society,” according to remarks relayed at a press briefing. US officials framed the step as limited and procedural, intended to refine migration management rather than end immigration pathways. The restriction applies to a narrow subset of applicants and is described as a short-term measure aligned with broader efforts to improve the immigration system. On regional economic issues, the US underlined it does not seek to disrupt Kazakhstan’s diverse trade ties, emphasizing adherence to international—not unilateral US—sanctions regimes. Officials noted Kazakhstan’s established practices to mitigate negative spillovers from sanctions and signaled limited expected impact on the country’s economy if current compliance trends continue.
“This is not a full rejection, only a temporary pause… aimed at helping regulate migration flows.” - Julie Stufft, US official, at a press briefing (egemen.kz)
“We have never initiated a halt to these trade relations… the issue concerns international sanctions rather than US unilateral measures.” - Julie Stufft, US official, at a press briefing (egemen.kz)
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U.S. Ambassador Says Diversity Visa Suspension Narrow in Reach
Published: 2026-02-13
At a press conference at the U.S. Embassy in Astana, Ambassador Julie Stufft addressed the temporary suspension impacting the Diversity Immigrant Visa program, noting its limited scope for Kazakhstan. While details on timing and specific categories were not disclosed, the envoy emphasized that the pause does not amount to a wholesale halt for Kazakhstani applicants and suggested routine consular operations continue. The statement seeks to clarify concerns among prospective migrants who rely on the annual lottery. The focus on narrow applicability signals no broader shift in U.S. immigration policy toward Kazakhstan, but applicants should monitor embassy updates for procedural adjustments and application timelines. No changes were announced to other visa classes, indicating business, study, and work travel channels remain unaffected for now.
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Infrastructure
Published: 2026-02-13
The government reviewed measures to boost throughput at highway checkpoints on the China border as freight volumes surge and bilateral trade targets US$100 billion annually. A package led by the Ministry of Finance would align operating hours on both sides—Kazakh posts have extended schedules, while Chinese posts reportedly close at 16:00—potentially lifting capacity by at least 20%. Authorities also plan to relocate ancillary procedures 1–10 km from the frontier to logistics hubs and temporary storage sites, leaving border posts focused on controls to cut dwell times. Three logistics centers on the China corridor and a specialized temporary storage facility near Nur Zholy are already operating, with additional sites under construction. The meeting, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and National Economy Minister Serik Zhumangarin, also addressed support for remote checkpoints and coordination on the Bakty–Ayagoz railway build in Abai Region, signaling broader modernization of cross-border infrastructure.
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Digital Tracking for Gas Cylinders Introduced as Autogas Stations Face Regional Caps
Published: 2026-02-13
The Energy Ministry will tighten oversight of Kazakhstan’s autogas sector through digital tracking of cylinders and limits on new filling stations. Each LPG cylinder will be mandatorily marked to curb counterfeit and uncertified products, while regional administrations will set caps on the number of autogas filling stations based on local vehicle fleets. The ministry will also develop new market control mechanisms in consultation with businesses to improve transparency. Vice Minister Qairkhan Tutqyshbayev outlined the measures, signaling a shift from rapid expansion—around 4,000 stations operate nationwide, up by 1,000 since early last year—to controlled growth. The reforms aim to enhance safety and quality assurance across the supply chain, affecting equipment suppliers, station operators, and regional regulators, and could reshape market entry and compliance costs for autogas providers.
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Society
Labor Ministry Outlines Support Measures to Tackle Youth Unemployment
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Labor and Social Protection detailed state support mechanisms aimed at reducing youth unemployment, addressing a persistent labor market challenge. While the article highlights the government’s focus on engaging young jobseekers, it does not specify program names or figures. Typically, such measures in Kazakhstan include subsidized employment, vocational training, internships, and entrepreneurship support via grants or microloans. These tools are designed to bridge skills gaps, connect graduates with employers, and incentivize hiring in priority sectors. For international companies operating locally, the emphasis on training and subsidized placements may expand the pool of entry-level talent and reduce onboarding costs. Further ministry releases will be needed to clarify eligibility, budget allocations, and performance metrics across regions.
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Environment
15-Year Water Planning Framework Introduced with New Water Code
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan is overhauling water governance with a 15-year planning horizon under a new Water Code that designates water as a strategic, limited resource. Allocation will be based on scientific assessments and long-term forecasts, directly tying regional economic development to available water stocks in state planning. Two anchor documents will steer policy: a national Master Plan for Integrated Water Resources Management, covering water security goals, transboundary rivers, and efficiency requirements; and basin-level plans for all eight water basins, detailing local restoration and infrastructure upgrades. Mandatory planning principles include maintaining ecological flows, maximizing economic returns per cubic meter, and mapping flood and drought risks. Public participation will occur via basin councils. Timelines set drafting of all basin plans by end-2026 and adoption of the unified master plan by Q3 2027, forming the basis for future industry, agriculture, and urban development strategies.
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Atyrau Air Quality Probe Stalled as H2S Levels Spike, Refinery Denies Role
Published: 2026-02-13
Residents near Atyrau report worsening air quality and a strong sulfur-like odor, with some seeking emergency care. A monitoring sweep by Kazhydromet and regional ecologists found hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon monoxide concentrations multiple times above permissible limits, peaking at 36.3x in Khimiki and 17.5x near Taskala. Officials say further inspection of Atyrau Oil Refinery requires prosecutorial authorization under the Entrepreneurial Code, delaying action. The refinery says operations are normal, attributing visible plumes to harmless water vapor and reporting in-house lab results within norms. It also argues wind direction indicates another source could be responsible.
“Breathing is impossible. People feel nauseous from the stench and some have high blood pressure, forcing them to call an ambulance.” - Aliya Kaiyrova, resident (egemen.kz)
“We cannot conduct a sudden inspection of Atyrau Oil Refinery without a permit… materials have been sent to the prosecutor’s office; checks start only after a case is registered.” - Yerlan Yesenov, Deputy Head, Regional Ecology Department (egemen.kz)
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Air Pollution Pressures Mount in Aktobe as Ministry Cites Aging Sewage and Complex Chromium Cleanup
Published: 2026-02-13
Aktobe’s air quality has deteriorated from “good” to “moderate,” with Kazhydromet recording 4,900 exceedances of pollutant limits in 2023–2024 and a standard index reaching “very high” levels in recent years. Concentrations of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen and carbon oxides, and formaldehyde are highest near landfills and industrial sites, with stagnant winter conditions exacerbating accumulation. Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Zhomart Aliev identified the city’s degraded sewage network as a key source of foul odors and said resolution of hexavalent chromium contamination in the Ilek River system remains technically unresolved pending comprehensive study with hydrology experts. From 2025, top-tier industrial facilities must modernize and obtain integrated environmental permits under the new Environmental Code; major emitters in Aktobe, including ERG’s ferroalloy plant and regional oil producers, face tighter controls, incentives for best available techniques, and potential loss of fee discounts if they delay upgrades.
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Severe Winter Conditions Forecast Nationwide with Snow, Black Ice, and Fog Through Feb. 16
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s national forecaster Kazhydromet warns of unstable winter conditions from February 14–16, including heavy snowfall, black ice, and fog, according to Qazinform. Such patterns typically disrupt intercity roads and regional highways, especially in northern and eastern oblasts, and can trigger flight delays and temporary school closures. Drivers should expect reduced visibility and hazardous surfaces in both urban and rural areas. Utilities and municipal services may face short-notice demands for snow clearance and de-icing, while logistics operators could encounter route changes and delivery lags. Employers should anticipate commuting disruptions and consider flexible scheduling. Travelers are advised to monitor airline and rail alerts and to check regional emergency notices. While no specific temperature ranges or city-by-city details were provided, the forecast window suggests multiple waves of precipitation and potential icing across large parts of the country.
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Innovation
January National Test Results Released as 68% Meet Threshold; 320 Violations Logged
Published: 2026-02-13
Roughly 184,000 applicants sat Kazakhstan’s January Unified National Testing (UNT), with 75% testing in Kazakh, 25% in Russian, and 113 in English. The Ministry of Science and Higher Education reported 68% achieved the minimum threshold; the five-subject average was 64, with a top score of 138. Mathematics–Physics was the most selected track (19.2%), followed by Biology–Chemistry (16.8%) and Creative Exam (9.8%). Accessibility measures enabled 446 applicants with special educational needs to participate. Security controls recorded 320 violations: 198 candidates were removed for attempting to bring prohibited items, 120 were expelled during testing with results annulled, and two certificates were voided after video review. Nearly 19,000 appeals were filed; two unique test items were upheld. Video monitoring will continue through October 31, and results may be canceled if additional breaches are found.
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Digital Almaty Forum Rebrands as Digital Qazaqstan 2026, Spotlighting Industry 5.0 in Shymkent
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s flagship tech forum will relaunch in 2026 as Digital Qazaqstan, shifting from an Almaty-centric event to a national platform focused on Industry 5.0 and the integration of AI across industry, public administration, and regional projects. The forum is scheduled for March 27, 2026, in Shymkent—a deliberate nod to strengthening regional hubs and diffusing digital transformation beyond major cities. Organizers plan practical showcases of AI, data, and robotics as tools to augment human work, improve productivity, and ensure more flexible, sustainable production. A new Digital Qazaqstan Awards will present national best practices. The event is organized by the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, the Shymkent Akimat, and the Astana Hub, and will be funded by sponsors, with media accreditation open until March 9, 2026.
“The forum’s core mission is to embed digital solutions into the real economy.” - Daniya Akhmetova, CEO of Digital Bridge (dknews.kz)
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Published: 2026-02-13
Astana Hub participant Metaclinic.kz has built a regulated platform for online medical consultations in Kazakhstan, standardizing remote care with verified physicians and documented outcomes. Users book by specialty, pay online, and receive calls within minutes; 15-minute triage sessions by therapists or pediatricians cost KZT 1,000, while specialist consults average KZT 5,000–10,000. About 370 doctors are onboarded after credential checks and training, with 100–150 active daily; over 3,000 patients have used the service. The team is developing separate mobile apps for doctors and patients, pursuing integrations with larger ecosystems—including a fitness industry partner—and exploring a pilot in Uzbekistan, while prioritizing domestic scaling. Quality control is central, with plans to deploy AI that compares clinical decisions to national and international protocols without replacing physicians.
“People choose online medicine not primarily because of distance, but due to lack of time.” - Nuraly Ismagulov, Metaclinic.kz co-founder (egemen.kz)
“AI won’t decide in place of a doctor; it will help keep care aligned with clinical standards.” - Nuraly Ismagulov, Metaclinic.kz co-founder (egemen.kz)
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Higgsfield AI Faces Backlash Over Marketing, Creator Payouts, and Policies
Published: 2026-02-13
Higgsfield AI, touted as Kazakhstan’s first unicorn, is under fire online following accusations of misleading marketing, inadequate creator compensation, and opaque platform rules, according to Qazinform. Executives have begun addressing the criticism, but specific remedial measures or timelines were not detailed in the report. The dispute raises questions about governance and monetization standards at one of Central Asia’s most visible AI startups. For stakeholders, key issues include clarity on how creators are paid, transparency in content and moderation policies, and the company’s approach to trust and safety as it scales. The controversy could influence investor confidence and regulatory scrutiny in Kazakhstan’s emerging tech sector, where unicorn-status firms set precedents for market practices and user protections. No direct statements from named individuals were cited in the article.
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Skills Enbek Reports 15,700 Course Completions Since Start of Year, Majority Young Jobseekers
Published: 2026-02-13
Since early 2026, 15,700 people have completed online courses and received certificates on the Skills Enbek vocational training platform, including about 4,300 unemployed participants. More than 1.2 million users are registered overall, with 24,900 new users added this year. Youth aged 16–35 account for most unemployed completers, underscoring growing uptake of short-cycle training. Participation is highest in Shymkent (1,492), followed by Karaganda Region (631) and Aktobe Region (427). The platform hosts 568 courses across various fields, 385 of them free, with options from partners such as Fluent Education and Yandex Kazakhstan. January certifications were led by “Cashier” (1,000), “Financial Literacy” (851), “Professional Personal Assistant” (758), and “Introduction to Social Work” (172). Courses run 2–72 hours, require a 70% pass mark, and certificates integrate into Enbek.kz CVs. Mobile access via the Enbek app has been available since December 2023.
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AI Adoption Shifts from Hype to Practical Gains with Procurement Savings and Finance Automation
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s AI sector is moving from experimentation to operational deployment, with 2025 marked by national infrastructure build-out and regulatory alignment. Businesses are targeting inefficiencies—especially in procurement—where algorithmic price benchmarking can cut inflated costs across thousands of SKUs, a task impractical for manual review. Redflags.ai founder Vitaliy Trenkensh warns against pursuing “AI sovereignty,” citing limited talent, funding, and GPUs, and argues for adapting global foundation models to local data.
“Kazakhstan lacks the specialists, financing, and compute to train fundamental language models; it’s more effective for business to localize proven global models.” - Vitaliy Trenkensh, founder of Redflags.ai (dknews.kz)
For SMEs, AI is displacing spreadsheets by acting as an accessible virtual CFO, saving 5–10 hours weekly, according to Finflow founder Nurdaulet Samen. Hiring expectations are shifting as AI literacy becomes baseline. Astana Hub targets $5 billion in AI solution exports by 2029. Success hinges less on tools than on skilled integration into daily workflows and strong management practices.
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Health
Health Ministry Launches Online Map to Track National Epidemiological Situation
Published: 2026-02-13
The National Center for Public Health has introduced an online map to monitor epidemiological trends nationwide, following a year of expanded laboratory capacity and round-the-clock analytics. According to the Health Ministry, the Center operated six core laboratories—virology, bacteriology, parasitology, high-risk infections, chemical-toxicology, and radiation safety with genomic sequencing—and conducted over 1,500 studies and sequencing runs in 2025. Continuous surveillance covered circulating strains and global developments, with more than 1,600 analytical and informational briefs prepared on COVID-19, pertussis, measles, ARVIs, influenza, pneumonia, and international risks, including scenario planning. Authorities also reported heightened border controls in response to concerns over the Nipah virus and measles. The new dashboard is intended to support timely risk assessment and decision-making by government bodies and inform the public on current conditions.
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Health Ministry Releases Update on Omicron Situation
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Control under the Ministry of Healthcare issued a new update on the prevention and spread of COVID-19 (Omicron variant) on 13 February 2026, according to Zakon.kz. The notice signals continued surveillance and public-health communication by national authorities as seasonal respiratory illnesses circulate. While the brief announcement did not include case figures, policy changes, or new restrictions, it indicates the government is maintaining monitoring and reporting practices more than four years into the pandemic. For businesses and institutions, the update suggests no immediate operational changes but underscores the importance of staying aligned with official advisories in case of localized outbreaks or revisions to testing and prevention protocols. Further details are expected from the Ministry’s subsequent releases or detailed bulletins.
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Government Plans New Pharma Plants as Expert Cites Import Reliance and Distribution Markups Driving Drug Prices
Published: 2026-02-13
Medicine prices continue to rise with frequent intra-city discrepancies, while the government advances domestic production plans. Authorities have approved six investment projects worth 316 billion tenge and target four new pharmaceutical plants and 356–400+ new medicines, but price pressures persist. Pharmacy expert Ásemai Mustafa links increases primarily to import dependence—an estimated 75–80% of medicines are imported—exposing prices to exchange-rate moves, inflation, and international market shifts. She also cites logistics, customs, storage, and rising input costs (raw materials, packaging, energy, wages), plus multi-layer distribution and pharmacy overheads, as key drivers. State controls cap prices for over-the-counter and publicly funded medicines via Health Ministry Orders No. 77 and No. 94, but oversight on the commercial market is looser and often complaint-driven, with penalties up to license revocation for repeat violations.
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Routine Measles Immunization Continues Nationwide; Health Officials Report No Unusual Adverse Events
Published: 2026-02-13
Kazakhstan’s health authorities say the epidemiological situation is under control and routine measles vaccination remains ongoing in all regions under the National Immunization Schedule. The combined measles, rubella, and mumps (MMR) vaccine—used for over a decade for children at ages one and six—is WHO-certified for production quality and meets international standards on safety and efficacy, the ministry’s notice states. Officials report no registered severe complications or atypical reactions associated with the vaccine in the country. The statement advises the public to rely on official sources and disregard misinformation. Recent policy steps in Astana have made measles vaccination mandatory for hospital admission of children, underscoring efforts to curb outbreaks. The update comes as authorities note a rise in vaccine refusals nationally, highlighting ongoing public health communication needs.
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VAT Exemption Set for Certain Imported Medicines Starting 2026
Published: 2026-02-13
From 1 January 2026, imports of medicines supplied under the Guaranteed Volume of Free Medical Care (GVFMC) and the Mandatory Social Health Insurance (MSHI) schemes—as well as drugs for orphan and socially significant diseases—will be exempt from VAT, according to the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance. The exemption requires a supply contract under GVFMC or MSHI executed per the Health Minister’s Order No. 110 (7 June 2023). Without such a contract at import, VAT applies: 5% for products on a designated social protection list and 16% for others. The list of eligible products and the preferential procedure were approved by Government Resolution No. 1203 dated 31 December 2025. Authorities emphasized correct, advance documentation to access the tax relief. Kazakhstan currently produces over 400 new medicines domestically.
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Government Sets 2029 Target for 50% Domestic Share in Medicines, Expands R&D and Investor Incentives
Published: 2026-02-13
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov outlined a plan to lift the domestic share of medicines on the local market to 50% by 2029, linking it to expanded use of local raw materials and development of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production. The government is offering tax and customs preferences, infrastructure support, land allocation, and long-term offtake guarantees to attract investors, with support aimed at full-cycle manufacturing and deep localization. R&D is being scaled through grant and program-targeted funding, including projects under QazBioPharm in North Kazakhstan to introduce Rhaponticum carthamoides and develop agrobiotechnology, as well as broader programs on cell, genomic, and proteomic technologies and methods to identify phytopreparations.
“Achieving this goal is directly tied to expanding the use of Kazakh raw materials and developing active pharmaceutical ingredient production.” - Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov (informburo.kz)
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Unvaccinated Children Drive Measles Cases in Oral as Health Situation Remains Unstable
Published: 2026-02-13
Health authorities in Oral report an unstable epidemiological situation linked to measles, with all affected children reportedly unvaccinated, according to Kazinform. The brief update underscores persistent immunity gaps that have fueled outbreaks across several regions in Kazakhstan since 2023, driven by vaccine hesitancy and missed immunizations during the pandemic period. For families and schools, the development signals potential disruptions if clusters expand, especially in early childhood and primary education settings where transmission risk is high. Employers should anticipate possible short-term absences due to quarantine or caregiving. Public health responses typically include catch-up vaccination campaigns, verification of immunization records in schools, and targeted outreach to hesitant parents. Travelers and newly arrived residents should check MMR immunization status and local advisories to mitigate exposure risk as authorities monitor case trends.
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