Kazakhstan, as a landlocked country in the heart of Eurasia, is seeking to change its status from a transit route to an active regional trade hub. At one of the largest financial summits in Central Asia, experts and investors discussed strategies for developing infrastructure and logistics so that the country can take advantage of its geographical position.
Logistics Challenges and Opportunities
Nurjan Marabaev, an investor in the infrastructure sector, emphasized that efficient, transparent, and competitive logistics can open new projects across Central Asia. He noted that Kazakhstan benefits from relatively low labor, resource, and construction costs, but expensive logistics challenges remain a barrier to development.
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Multimodal Transport Potential
Meruyert Zoldybayeva, the airport manager, pointed to the potential of multimodal transport and mentioned a China-Europe trade route that transfers goods from Shenzhen to Europe in just seven days. She stated that the port of Aktau could become a major hub connecting rail, sea, and air links. This could facilitate trade between Kazakhstan and Europe.
Additionally, production in Kazakhstan is expanding. Alima Ismbaeva announced that production has increased from 2.3 trillion tenge in 2021 to nearly 4 trillion by 2025, while exports have more than doubled between 2021 and 2024. These figures indicate Kazakhstan's high potential to become an attractive manufacturing hub for foreign investors.
Investment and Natural Resources
Ilia Orazakov, a business expert, highlighted Kazakhstan's track record of foreign investment and its rich natural resources as key advantages. He stated that these factors could make Kazakhstan an attractive destination for foreign investments. Furthermore, Tam Vinaimot, a university professor, emphasized the need to manage currency risks and ensure predictable financing so that the country can achieve its commercial development goals.
Ultimately, developments in Kazakhstan could bring new opportunities for trade cooperation with European countries. Given the country's geographical position and its efforts to improve infrastructure, Kazakhstan is expected to become an effective bridge between Europe and Asia.
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