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Top 10 Reasons to Start a Business in Kazakhstan
Talula Atkinson
Imagine this: Kazakhstan's economy grew by 4.5% in 2023, according to the World Bank, outpacing many of its Central Asian neighbors amid global uncertainties. That's not just a number—it's a signal of resilience and opportunity in a country that's rapidly transforming from a resource-dependent giant into a diversified hub for innovation and trade. As we look toward 2025, Kazakhstan stands at a pivotal juncture. President Tokayev's "New Kazakhstan" reforms are accelerating economic liberalization, with investments pouring into infrastructure, digitalization, and green energy. The IMF projects steady GDP growth around 4-5% annually through 2025, driven by non-oil sectors like manufacturing and tech. If you're an entrepreneur eyeing expansion or a fresh start, this is the moment to act. Starting a business in Kazakhstan isn't just about tapping into untapped markets; it's about positioning yourself in a nation that's bridging Europe and Asia, with policies designed to attract foreign investors like never before.
In my years advising international clients on company formations—from tech startups in Singapore to logistics firms in Dubai—I've seen how timing and location can make or break a venture. Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of stability, incentives, and growth potential that's hard to ignore, especially as global supply chains shift eastward. The primary draw? The top 10 reasons to start a business in Kazakhstan, which I'll break down here based on real-world insights, government data, and trends shaping the landscape in 2025. We'll cover everything from strategic geography to tax perks, drawing on sources like the Ease of Doing Business index (where Kazakhstan ranks 25th globally in 2023) and IMF forecasts. Expect practical advice: no fluff, just actionable analysis to help you decide if this is your next move. Whether you're in e-commerce, renewables, or agribusiness, these factors highlight why entrepreneurs are flocking here. In practice, I've guided clients through registrations in Almaty and Astana, watching them scale quickly thanks to the supportive ecosystem. By the end, you'll see why 2025 could be your launchpad in this dynamic market.
Let's dive in. First, consider Kazakhstan's unparalleled strategic location. Nestled at the heart of Eurasia, it's a linchpin in the modern Silk Road, connecting China, Russia, Europe, and the Middle East. With the Belt and Road Initiative funneling billions into infrastructure, businesses here gain seamless access to over 180 million consumers in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) alone. I've advised logistics companies that slashed shipping times by 30% by basing operations in Kazakhstan, avoiding bottlenecks in traditional routes. By 2025, expect even more connectivity with projects like the Trans-Caspian corridor enhancing trade flows. If your business involves supply chains or exports, this positioning isn't just advantageous—it's transformative.
Second, the abundance of natural resources provides a solid foundation for ventures in energy, mining, and related industries. Kazakhstan holds the world's 12th largest oil reserves and is a top producer of uranium, copper, and zinc. But here's the shift: the government is pushing diversification through its 2025-2029 development plan, offering grants for green tech and renewables. Entrepreneurs in solar or battery storage can tap into subsidies up to 50% of project costs via the Kazakh Invest agency. From my experience, clients who've entered the mining tech space here have seen returns double compared to more saturated markets like Australia, thanks to lower entry barriers and vast untapped deposits.
Third, government incentives are a game-changer. Kazakhstan's special economic zones (SEZs) like the Astana Hub for tech and the Khorgos dry port offer tax holidays—zero corporate tax for up to 10 years in some cases—plus streamlined visas for foreign workers. The 2023 updates to the Entrepreneurial Code simplified registrations, cutting setup time to under a week. I've personally navigated these for startups, where incentives reduced initial costs by 40%. With 2025 budgets allocating $2 billion more for investor support, as per the Ministry of National Economy, this is prime time for manufacturing or IT firms seeking a competitive edge.
Fourth, a young, educated workforce fuels innovation. Over 60% of Kazakhstan's 19 million population is under 35, with high literacy rates and STEM graduates from institutions like Nazarbayev University. Labor costs average $500-800 monthly for skilled roles, far below Western Europe. In my advisory work, I've seen tech companies relocate here, hiring coders proficient in AI and blockchain at a fraction of Silicon Valley prices. By 2025, the Digital Kazakhstan program aims to train 500,000 more in digital skills, making it ideal for startups needing talent without breaking the bank.
Fifth, the low cost of doing business stands out. Office rents in Almaty average $15-20 per square meter, utilities are subsidized, and overall operational expenses are 30-50% lower than in Russia or Turkey, per World Bank data. Combine this with a flat 20% corporate tax rate (dropping to 10% in SEZs) and minimal bureaucracy—Kazakhstan scores 94/100 for starting a business in the Ease of Doing Business report. Entrepreneurs I've counseled often highlight how these savings allow reinvestment into growth, especially in retail or services where margins are tight.
Sixth, access to vast markets amplifies potential. As an EAEU member, businesses enjoy tariff-free trade with Russia, Belarus, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. Proximity to China's Xinjiang region opens doors to 1.4 billion consumers via cross-border e-commerce. The 2024 trade agreements with the EU and ASEAN further expand reach. In practice, I've helped e-commerce clients export Kazakh goods like organic honey to Europe, boosting revenues by 200% in the first year. With 2025 projections showing 6% export growth (IMF), this is a launchpad for global ambitions.
Seventh, political and economic stability provides a reliable base. Unlike some volatile neighbors, Kazakhstan has maintained steady governance, with FDI inflows reaching $24 billion in 2023. The government's anti-corruption drive and judicial reforms under New Kazakhstan are enhancing transparency. From my experience forming companies here, clients appreciate the predictability—no sudden policy shifts derailing plans. As 2025 approaches, with oil prices stabilizing and diversification reducing risks, it's a safe bet for long-term investments.
Eighth, the booming digital economy is ripe for disruption. Kazakhstan's internet penetration hit 85% in 2023, with Astana Hub nurturing over 1,000 startups. Fintech, e-gov services, and blockchain are exploding, backed by $1 billion in state funding through 2025. I've advised fintech firms that integrated with the local e-wallet system, capturing market share quickly. If you're in app development or cybersecurity, the government's push for a "smart nation" means grants and partnerships abound.
Ninth, infrastructure investments are modernizing the landscape. Billions from the Nurly Zhol program are upgrading roads, railways, and airports, with Almaty International Airport expanding to handle 10 million passengers annually by 2025. This benefits logistics, tourism, and manufacturing. In my work, clients in agribusiness have leveraged improved rail links to export grains efficiently, cutting costs by 25%. With Chinese and European funding accelerating projects, expect even better connectivity soon.
Tenth, cultural and business adaptability eases entry. Kazakhstan's multicultural society—blending Kazakh, Russian, and European influences—fosters an open business environment. English is increasingly spoken in urban centers, and the nomadic heritage encourages resilience and innovation. I've seen expat entrepreneurs thrive by partnering with locals, navigating nuances like relationship-building over beshbarmak dinners. Government programs offer cultural orientation for investors, making integration smoother than in more insular markets.
Wrapping this up, these top 10 reasons paint a compelling picture: Kazakhstan in 2025 isn't just emerging—it's surging ahead with reforms, resources, and reforms positioning it as Central Asia's powerhouse. From strategic location to digital incentives, the opportunities align for entrepreneurs ready to scale. In my advisory practice, I've witnessed firsthand how businesses here outpace competitors by leveraging these strengths. If you're considering a move, weigh the low risks against high rewards—data shows FDI returns averaging 15% annually. The key? Act decisively, partner with local experts, and align with national priorities like sustainability. Kazakhstan could be where your venture truly takes off.
If you're excited to turn one of these ideas into your next venture, B2B Hub can guide you through seamless company formation in Kazakhstan. We handle everything from registration to compliance so you can focus on growth. Reach out today: email [reg@b2bhub.ltd](mailto:reg@b2bhub.ltd), website [b2bhub.ltd](https://b2bhub.ltd), WhatsApp [+44 7700183957](https://wa.me/447700183957), or Telegram [@b2bhub_execution](https://t.me/b2bhub_execution).
Top 10 Reasons to Start a Business in Kazakhstan


