Investment potential of agricultural sector in Kazakhstan draws interest from buyers
In the heart of Central Asia, Kazakhstan's agricultural sector is experiencing a significant surge, with exports reaching an impressive $5.1 billion over the past five years, marking a 51% increase. This growth is driven by a combination of strategic government support, infrastructure upgrades, and smart trade positioning.
The government's focus on real sector development, investment stimulation, and productivity gains has been instrumental in this growth. In 2024, agriculture grew by around 13.7%, reflecting increased production capacity supported by transport-logistics infrastructure improvements and expanded access to financial tools.
Kazakhstan's strategic location as a transit hub between Europe and Asia, and its active integration into regional trade frameworks like the Belt and Road Initiative, further enhances export opportunities and logistics efficiency. This is exemplified by a sharp increase in barley exports in the 2024-2025 marketing year, highlighting both production scaling and penetration into global grain markets.
The sector's growth is not limited to crop production. Kazakhstan has emerged as a significant player in the global market for sunflower oil and meal, with sunflower oil production increasing by 2.5 times over the past three marketing years. The country ranked 8th among global sunflower oil exporters and entered the top three suppliers of sunflower meal to the European Union in 2023-2024.
Moreover, the volume of crop production in Kazakhstan has grown significantly, with new phytosanitary agreements signed with several countries. The area of land certified for organic production reached nearly 200,000 hectares in 2023, up from 114,000 hectares in 2022. Organic products, such as wheat, flax, soybeans, peas, chickpeas, and medicinal herbs, are a promising direction for Kazakhstan's exports, with over 60 producers certified according to international standards.
The agricultural sector is also focusing on developing deep processing of agricultural products, with several projects set to launch in various regions. Over 52% of Kazakhstan's agricultural exports now consist of high-value-added products.
Kazakhstan's meat exports are also on the rise, with 40,000 tons exported abroad in the first 5 months of 2025. Kazakh meat is known for its high quality, natural taste, and competitiveness, especially in the premium segment of chilled products. The country exports meat to 8 countries and is working on entering new markets.
To support this growth, the government has increased state support for deep processing, with investment subsidies norms increased from 25% to 50%. Kazakhstan is implementing the Concept for the Development of the Agro-Industrial Complex by 2030, with a focus on sustainable practices, crop diversification, and efficient resource use.
The country has also increased the use of fertilizers by 1.9 times over two years and is adopting agrotechnologies to boost yields. Kazakhstan has significant potential for increasing meat production due to its pastures and nomadic livestock system.
In addition, Kazakhstan has high potential for developing carbon farming and combating desertification, with pilot projects already underway. The sector's focus on sustainable practices is evident, as it strives to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
With over 3,500 Kazakh enterprises included in foreign importers' registers in the livestock sector and plans to implement over 600 investment projects in the agro-food sector totaling over $4.8 billion over the next three years, the future of Kazakhstan's agricultural sector looks bright and promising.
Despite Kazakhstan's agricultural sector primarily focusing on crop production and livestock, the government is advocating for the development of sports facilities to boost the rural economy and provide recreational opportunities for farmers. This initiative aims to take advantage of stark weather contrasts between the winter and summer seasons, enabling year-round sports activities.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Agriculture is considering the integration of athletic tournaments as part of agricultural fairs to draw in larger crowds, showcase achievements, and foster a sense of camaraderie among farmers and their communities, ultimately strengthening the overall agricultural sector in Kazakhstan.
