Kazakhstan Prioritizes Foreign Retails Chains as Higher-Value Exports Grow

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Kazakhstan is preparing new support to place domestically produced goods in major foreign retail chains as the country seeks to build on rising nonresource exports and shift sales toward higher-value finished products. Nonresource exports increased 14.5% in the first five months of 2026 to $11.8 billion, while around 44% of goods produced in… The post Kazakhstan Prioritizes Foreign Retails Chains as Higher-Value Exports Grow appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Expands Digital Water Management as Pressure on Resources Grows

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Kazakhstan is expanding digital monitoring, flood forecasting and groundwater research as it seeks to move from reactive water management toward a system that can anticipate risks and track water supplies more accurately. The Central Asian nation seeks to invest in better data to help solve some of its most persistent water problems. The… The post Kazakhstan Expands Digital Water Management as Pressure on Resources Grows appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Moves Up 17 Spots in Post-Shock Investment Risk Assessment

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA — Kazakhstan rose 17 places to rank 53rd in the May 2026 update of the Global Investment Risk and Resilience Index, marking one of the country’s strongest recent improvements in assessments of its ability to withstand economic and geopolitical shocks. The May 2026 edition of the index assesses countries by combining long-term resilience indicators… The post Kazakhstan Moves Up 17 Spots in Post-Shock Investment Risk Assessment appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Releases First Tiger Into Wild in More Than 70 Years

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA — Kazakhstan has released a tiger into the wild for the first time in more than 70 years, marking a historic milestone in a decade-long effort to restore the predator to its former habitat and revive the wider ecosystem of the southern Lake Balkhash region. An adult female Amur tiger named Umit, meaning “hope”… The post Kazakhstan Releases First Tiger Into Wild in More Than 70 Years appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Why is Hydropower Becoming Central to Kazakhstan’s Clean Energy Strategy?

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan’s renewable energy strategy is entering a new phase. After a decade of rapidly expanding wind and solar generation, the government is shifting its focus to hydropower as the missing link needed to stabilize an increasingly renewable electricity system. The shift became clearer on July 31, when the government approved a Hydropower Development… The post Why is Hydropower Becoming Central to Kazakhstan’s Clean Energy Strategy? appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Hosting Global AI Olympiad, Kazakhstan Looks Beyond Competition

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – As more than 500 high school students from 106 countries gathered in Astana for the International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (IOAI), President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev used the event to showcase Kazakhstan’s broader ambition to become one of Eurasia’s leading AI economies. But while hosting global competitions highlights the country’s growing digital profile, experts say… The post Hosting Global AI Olympiad, Kazakhstan Looks Beyond Competition appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Can Central Asia Turn Political Trust Into Lasting Regional Cooperation?

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Central Asia is moving beyond symbolic diplomacy toward a more durable system of regional coordination, according to Filippo Costa Buranelli, an associate professor of international relations at the University of St. Andrews in the United Kingdom. Following last week’s informal summit of Central Asian leaders and Azerbaijan in Cholpon-Ata, Buranelli said in an… The post Can Central Asia Turn Political Trust Into Lasting Regional Cooperation? appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Campaign Week in Review: Kazakhstan’s Kurultai Race from July 27 to Aug. 2

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – This week’s election campaign roundup covers developments from July 27 to Aug. 2, when Kazakhstan’s political parties intensified voter outreach following the first nationally televised debate and held dozens of campaign events nationwide. National televised debate draws public attention One of the week’s key campaign events took place on July 29, when Qazaqstan… The post Campaign Week in Review: Kazakhstan’s Kurultai Race from July 27 to Aug. 2 appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan to Become One of Eurasia’s Leading Logistics Hubs, Tokayev Says

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan has unveiled a new phase of its transport infrastructure strategy, launching construction of the Beineu–Saksaulsk highway and announcing the expansion of two additional road corridors as part of a broader effort to reposition the country as a key logistics hub linking Europe and Asia. Speaking at an Aug. 3 ceremony, President Kassym-Jomart… The post Kazakhstan to Become One of Eurasia’s Leading Logistics Hubs, Tokayev Says appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Meets Renewable Energy Goal Ahead of Schedule. What Comes Next?

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan exceeded its national target for renewable electricity generation in 2025, marking another milestone in the country’s green energy transition. But while record output underscores the success of years of investment in wind and solar power, the figures also point to the next phase of the transition: integrating a rapidly growing share of… The post Kazakhstan Meets Renewable Energy Goal Ahead of Schedule. What Comes Next? appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Wondering Where to Go in Mangystau This Summer? Start With These Ten Places

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – From canyons and chalk-white cliffs to underground mosques and windswept Caspian shores, Kazakhstan’s Mangystau Region offers some of the country’s most striking landscapes and a growing draw for summer travelers seeking culture, adventure and the unexpected. Stretching from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the vast Ustyurt Plateau, Mangystau is home to… The post Wondering Where to Go in Mangystau This Summer? Start With These Ten Places appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Prepares for First Wild Tiger Release as Reintroduction Project Enters Defining Stage

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – After years of habitat restoration and careful adaptation, the success of Kazakhstan’s tiger restoration effort will soon depend on whether the animals can survive and coexist with people in the wild. For nearly a decade, Kazakhstan’s effort to restore tigers to the Ili-Balkhash ecosystem has been approaching what conservationists consider its most consequential… The post Kazakhstan Prepares for First Wild Tiger Release as Reintroduction Project Enters Defining Stage appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Rejects Reports of Complete CPC Shutdown

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Energy Ministry said a complete shutdown of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) is not under consideration, dismissing media reports suggesting the pipeline’s operations could be fully suspended. In a statement issued Aug. 1, the ministry said the CPC temporarily suspended operations on July 31 but continues to receive crude oil from shippers… The post Kazakhstan Rejects Reports of Complete CPC Shutdown appeared first on The Astana Times.

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How Kazakh Youth Transforms Accessibility Through Technology

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – What began as a series of independent projects has grown into Kazakhstan’s first inclusive digital ecosystem, combining transportation, accessibility and communication services into a single platform designed by and for people with disabilities. Developed by Pavlodar-based university students Stanislav Kirichenko and Islam Kulenov, Involve aims to simplify everyday life through digital solutions that… The post How Kazakh Youth Transforms Accessibility Through Technology appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakh Cinema Expands International Festival Presence With San Sebastián Selection

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its presence on the international festival circuit as “Mūğalım” (Teacher), the feature debut of director Ayana Nurdinova, has been selected for the New Directors competition at the 74th San Sebastián International Film Festival, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious Class A festivals in Spain. “Mūğalım” becomes the… The post Kazakh Cinema Expands International Festival Presence With San Sebastián Selection appeared first on The Astana Times.

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With Azerbaijan, Central Asia Seeks Greater Geopolitical Weight

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – The leaders of Central Asia and Azerbaijan gathered in Cholpon-Ata on July 31 for an informal summit aimed at translating years of improving political ties into practical regional integration, as Azerbaijan expands the grouping’s reach across the Caspian and Kazakhstan pushes for an action plan for a landmark cooperation treaty. The consultative format… The post With Azerbaijan, Central Asia Seeks Greater Geopolitical Weight appeared first on The Astana Times.

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First Weekend of August Brings Music, Festivals and Family Fun

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Make the most of the final month of summer with festivals, concerts, international performances and family-friendly events. The Astana Times has curated a guide to the events and activities to make your weekend truly special. Astana Soundroom’s Fifth Anniversary Celebration, Aug. 1 Celebrate five years of music with a festive concert featuring performances… The post First Weekend of August Brings Music, Festivals and Family Fun  appeared first on The Astana Times.

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How Trans-Caspian Cable Fits Kazakhstan’s Evolving Connectivity Strategy

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA — For decades, Kazakhstan’s connectivity strategy was measured in highways, railways and pipelines. Today, that vision is expanding. As global competition increasingly depends on the movement of data alongside the movement of goods, the country is investing in a new layer of strategic infrastructure — one designed not to carry cargo, but information. Among… The post How Trans-Caspian Cable Fits Kazakhstan’s Evolving Connectivity Strategy appeared first on The Astana Times.

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News Digest: Foreign Media on Air Taxis, Energy Security and Middle Corridor

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – The Astana Times has selected articles from international media outlets covering Kazakhstan. This week’s foreign media digest highlights the country’s plans to launch Central Asia’s first air taxi service, developments in energy security, transport connectivity and regional diplomacy. Speaking alongside Putin, Kazakh President calls for freeze of Ukraine war Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev… The post News Digest: Foreign Media on Air Taxis, Energy Security and Middle Corridor appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Joins Top Five Gold Buyers Amid Reserve Strategy Shift

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan ranked among the world’s five largest central bank gold buyers in the second quarter of 2026, purchasing 15 tons of the precious metal as monetary authorities worldwide accelerated efforts to strengthen reserves amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty and shifting global financial conditions. According to the latest World Gold Council (WGC) report, the National… The post Kazakhstan Joins Top Five Gold Buyers Amid Reserve Strategy Shift appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Almaty Airport’s Next Takeoff: Can Kazakhstan Build Central Asia’s Leading Aviation Hub?

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – As Central Asian countries accelerate airport expansion to capture growing passenger and cargo flows between Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan is entering a new phase of competition. While Uzbekistan has launched construction of what is expected to become the region’s largest airport, Almaty is pursuing a different strategy: expanding capacity while investing in operational… The post Almaty Airport’s Next Takeoff: Can Kazakhstan Build Central Asia’s Leading Aviation Hub? appeared first on The Astana Times.

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August 23: Kazakhstan’s First Vote Under New Constitution

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. Kazakhstan’s elections to the new Kurultai on Aug. 23 will give practical effect to the provisions of the new Constitution adopted in March. These elections represent an important stage in the implementation of the new constitutional order and the first nationwide vote under the new constitutional framework, making them an early test of the new… The post August 23: Kazakhstan’s First Vote Under New Constitution appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Heatwave Drives Electricity Demand Growth in Kazakhstan

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Abnormally high temperatures have contributed to rising electricity consumption and increased pressure on Kazakhstan’s power system, notably during evening peak hours, according to the Ministry of Energy. The ministry said the national energy system is operating normally, while additional demand is mainly observed during periods of maximum consumption. Higher temperatures have increased the… The post Heatwave Drives Electricity Demand Growth in Kazakhstan appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan’s Smart City Strategy Enters New Phase Through Global AI Partnerships

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Kazakhstan has taken a new step in its digital transformation agenda by signing an agreement with the Global Digital Economy Cities Alliance (DEC40), an international organization promoting cooperation in smart city development and the digital economy, on July 28, to advance collaboration in smart cities, artificial intelligence and regional innovation. The partnership between… The post Kazakhstan’s Smart City Strategy Enters New Phase Through Global AI Partnerships  appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan-China Oil Pipeline: Alternative Route as Export Risks Mount

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Twenty years after the first Kazakh crude reached China, the Atasu-Alashankou pipeline has evolved from an infrastructure project into one of Eurasia’s most strategically important energy corridors. More than a transportation route, the pipeline has strengthened economic ties between neighboring Kazakhstan and China while providing an alternative export corridor at a time of… The post Kazakhstan-China Oil Pipeline: Alternative Route as Export Risks Mount appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Drone Attack on CPC Facility Threatens Critical Route for Kazakhstan’s Global Oil Supplies

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – A tanker loading Kazakh oil at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) marine terminal was attacked by drones on July 30, causing a fire on board and suspending loading operations. No casualties or oil spill were reported. According to CPC, the tanker Nissos Sifnos under the flag of the Marshall Islands, carrying crude oil… The post Drone Attack on CPC Facility Threatens Critical Route for Kazakhstan’s Global Oil Supplies appeared first on The Astana Times.

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What CPC Disruptions Reveal About Energy Security, Kazakhstan’s Balanced Foreign Policy

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – The Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which exports around 80% of Kazakh oil, has been shut down for a week following Ukrainian drone attacks on July 17 and 19. The recurrent attacks renew questions about the country’s energy security, export dependence and the growing challenge of preserving its balanced foreign policy. The tankers Asia and… The post What CPC Disruptions Reveal About Energy Security, Kazakhstan’s Balanced Foreign Policy appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Can Kazakhstan Balance Cheap Toll Roads With Modernization?

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Kazakhstan continues to operate one of the world’s most affordable toll road systems, with passenger vehicles paying an average of 207 tenge (US$0,44) per 100 kilometers on Category I highways, the country’s highest-standard roads, using prepaid accounts. According to national road operator KazAvtoZhol’s release from July 28, comparable toll roads in China, France,… The post Can Kazakhstan Balance Cheap Toll Roads With Modernization? appeared first on The Astana Times.

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From Screens to Stadiums: Games of the Future 2026 Kicks Off in Astana

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – The Games of the Future will become another golden bridge of unity, friendship and solidarity among countries, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said as he opened the international tournament in Astana on July 29. The tournament brings together more than 800 participants representing over 50 nationalities. They will compete through Aug. 9 across eight disciplines… The post From Screens to Stadiums: Games of the Future 2026 Kicks Off in Astana  appeared first on The Astana Times.

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Kazakhstan Faces Growing Health Risks as Rising Temperatures Intensify

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Kazakhstan is facing increasing climate-related risks as temperatures rise at around twice the global average, putting growing pressure on public health systems and communities. Experts warn that more frequent and intense heatwaves require stronger adaptation measures, including a national Heat-Health Action Plan. According to Kazhydromet, 2025 was the warmest year in Kazakhstan’s recorded… The post Kazakhstan Faces Growing Health Risks as Rising Temperatures Intensify appeared first on The Astana Times.

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