BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. Kazakhstan has
presented a comprehensive plan for the development of the light
industry sector for 2026–2030, focusing on production localization,
market expansion and support for domestic manufacturers.
This was reflected in the statement published by the official
information resource of the Prime Minister of the Republic of
Kazakhstan.
The plan was discussed at a meeting chaired by Kazakhstan’s
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik
Zhumangarin with representatives of relevant ministries, the
National Chamber of Entrepreneurs "Atameken", the Damu
Entrepreneurship Development Fund and domestic enterprises.
"The Comprehensive Plan sets ambitious goals. By 2030, the plan
aims to increase raw material processing volumes by 1.5-2 times,
create approximately 40,000 jobs, and implement 35 investment
projects. The state is prepared to support companies that increase
localization and expand production. At the same time, the
Comprehensive Plan will remain a flexible document and will be
revised as necessary based on implementation practices," emphasized
Serik Zhumangarin.
According to Vice Minister of Industry Olzhas Saparbekov, the
document includes 28 measures aimed at improving legislation,
procurement mechanisms, combating shadow imports, attracting
investment, developing local brands and training specialists.
The medium-term measures include ensuring access to raw
materials for manufacturers, expanding sales markets and creating
equal competitive conditions in public procurement. Long-term
priorities include deeper localization of production and greater
market transparency. One of the planned measures is the
introduction of a full traceability system for raw materials and
finished products through the use of "virtual warehouses" and
electronic invoices.
A key instrument will be localization agreements with industry
enterprises. Under these agreements, companies will undertake
obligations to increase production volumes, localize manufacturing,
create jobs and improve employee qualifications. In return,
businesses will have access to state support measures, including
preferential financing, equipment leasing, special investment
contracts and long-term procurement agreements.
According to the Ministry of Trade and Integration, light
industry and agriculture account for the largest number of domestic
producers in Kazakhstan. At the same time, imports continue to
dominate the sector’s foreign trade, indicating significant
potential for further development of local production.
The meeting also highlighted measures aimed at increasing the
presence of Kazakh products in retail. Legislation requires that at
least 30% of shelf space be allocated to domestic goods, while
retail facilities receiving state support must allocate no less
than 50%.
In addition, restrictions have been introduced on unjustified
refusals by retail chains to sign supply agreements with Kazakh
producers and on excessive increases in rental costs. The Ministry
of Trade and Integration is also developing a comprehensive program
to promote products under the "Made in Kazakhstan" brand.
During the meeting, Atameken and the Damu Fund presented
proposals for the 10th Ulttyq Ónim exhibition of domestic
manufacturers, with a focus on light industry. The expanded program
is expected to include industry sessions, discussions on sales
through marketplaces and retail chains, export and logistics
consultations, Fashion Day and a competition for the best light
industry brand in Kazakhstan.
Representatives of the industry also raised issues related to
certification costs, public procurement requirements and the need
to consider companies’ localization levels, job creation and
modernization investments when selecting suppliers.
Zhumangarin noted that certification remains an important
mechanism for ensuring product quality and safety, while
instructing the Ministry of Trade and Integration to study
opportunities to reduce certification costs, extend certificate
validity periods and introduce certain incentives for companies
operating under special investment contracts. The Deputy Prime
Minister emphasized that the development of light industry is a
priority for Kazakhstan primarily due to its potential to create
jobs and strengthen domestic manufacturing.
