As I look at Kazakhstan's economic landscape heading into 2025, one statistic jumps out: the country's GDP grew by 4.5% in 2023, according to the World Bank, and projections from the IMF suggest it'll hover around 4-5% annually through 2025, driven by resource exports and diversification efforts. I've advised entrepreneurs launching ventures here, and I've seen firsthand how this vast Central Asian nation, with its strategic position along the Belt and Road Initiative, offers untapped opportunities for savvy business minds. Imagine a foreign investor spotting the potential in Kazakhstan's booming mining sector—rich in uranium, copper, and gold—only to pivot into tech startups amid the government's push for digital economy growth. That's the kind of real-world scenario playing out right now.

Why is 2025 a pivotal year? Kazakhstan is accelerating its post-pandemic recovery while navigating global shifts like the energy transition and supply chain realignments. The government's "Kazakhstan-2050" strategy emphasizes diversification away from oil dependency, with incentives for non-extractive industries. Ease of Doing Business rankings from the World Bank place Kazakhstan at 25th globally in 2020, but recent reforms in 2023-2024 have streamlined company registration to as little as five days through the e-Gov portal. Add to that a youthful population—over 60% under 35—and rising foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, which hit $24 billion in 2022 per UNCTAD data, and you have a fertile ground for new businesses.

In this article, we'll dive into the most popular businesses in Kazakhstan, focusing on sectors that are not just trending but proven profitable based on my experience and current data. I'll break it down by key industries, highlighting why they're hot, the entry barriers, potential risks, and practical steps to get started. Expect actionable insights drawn from advising clients who've navigated everything from Astana's bureaucratic hurdles to Almaty's vibrant startup scene. We'll cover oil and gas, mining, agriculture, IT and digital services, tourism, manufacturing, retail, and emerging green energy ventures. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of where to invest your energy—and capital—in 2025. Let's get into it.

Oil and Gas: The Economic Backbone

Kazakhstan's oil and gas sector remains the undisputed heavyweight, contributing about 20% to GDP and over 60% of exports, as per 2023 IMF reports. With massive fields like Tengiz and Kashagan, it's no wonder this industry attracts the lion's share of FDI. In practice, I've seen international firms partner with local entities to tap into these reserves, often through joint ventures mandated by the Subsoil Use Code.

What's making it popular in 2025? Global energy demands are rebounding, and Kazakhstan's role in OPEC+ agreements positions it for stable output. The government offers tax breaks, like a 10-year corporate income tax exemption for priority projects under the Entrepreneurial Code. Popular business models include exploration services, pipeline maintenance, and downstream processing like refineries.

Starting up isn't cheap—expect initial investments from $500,000 for a small service firm to millions for extraction rights. Risks include volatile oil prices (Brent crude fluctuated between $70-90 per barrel in 2024) and environmental regulations tightening under the Paris Agreement commitments. Culturally, building relationships with local authorities is key; I've advised clients to engage in community projects to smooth approvals.

To launch, register as an LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) via the Ministry of Justice, secure a subsoil use license from the Ministry of Energy, and comply with local content rules requiring 50-70% Kazakh workforce. Profit margins can hit 20-30% for efficient operators. If you're eyeing this, focus on tech-enhanced extraction to align with the country's digital oilfield initiatives.

Mining: Digging into Riches

Closely tied to oil, mining is another pillar, with Kazakhstan leading globally in uranium production (43% of world supply in 2023, per World Nuclear Association) and ranking high in copper, zinc, and gold. The sector saw a 5% growth in 2023, fueled by Chinese and European demand for critical minerals.

Popular businesses here include extraction operations, ore processing plants, and equipment supply chains. I've worked with entrepreneurs who started small-scale gold mining in the east, scaling up through exports to Russia and China. The appeal for 2025? Rising electric vehicle battery needs are boosting demand for Kazakhstan's lithium and rare earths, with new deposits discovered in the Karaganda region.

Entry costs vary: a mid-sized mine might require $10-20 million, including environmental impact assessments. The Mining Code of 2018 simplified licensing, but geopolitical tensions—like sanctions on Russia—affect supply chains. Risks involve commodity price swings and labor disputes in remote areas.

Practically, form a JSC (Joint Stock Company) for larger operations, obtain exploration rights from the Committee of Geology, and adhere to ESG standards to attract investors. In my experience, partnering with state-owned Kazatomprom for uranium ventures yields quicker returns, often 15-25% ROI within three years.

Agriculture: Feeding the Future

Agriculture employs 15% of the workforce and contributes 5% to GDP, but it's poised for growth with vast arable land—over 20 million hectares. Wheat exports alone reached 8 million tons in 2023, per FAO data, making it a staple for Central Asia and beyond.

Hot businesses include grain farming, livestock rearing, and agrotech like precision farming tools. With climate change impacting yields, I've seen a surge in greenhouse operations in the south, near Almaty, where water-efficient tech is transforming productivity.

Why 2025? Government subsidies under the Agro-Industrial Complex program offer up to 50% funding for equipment, and EU trade agreements are opening markets. Start with $100,000 for a medium farm, focusing on organic produce for premium pricing.

Risks: Weather variability and land lease issues from the Land Code. Culturally, rural networks matter—build ties with akimats (local administrations). Register via e-Gov, secure land rights, and aim for 10-20% margins by exporting to China via the Khorgos dry port.

IT and Digital Services: The Tech Boom

Kazakhstan's IT sector is exploding, with a 20% annual growth rate projected through 2025 by the Astana Hub, the country's Silicon Valley equivalent. Exports of IT services hit $1 billion in 2023, driven by outsourcing to Europe and the US.

Popular ventures: software development, fintech apps, and e-commerce platforms. I've advised startups in the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), where English common law applies, making it investor-friendly. Think apps for logistics in the Belt and Road corridor.

Entry is accessible—$50,000 can launch a dev firm. Incentives include zero corporate tax in special economic zones like the Park of Innovative Technologies. Risks: Talent shortages, though the Bolashak scholarship program is building skills.

Form an LLP, join Astana Hub for networking, and leverage remote work trends. From my vantage, fintech focusing on Islamic banking (halal finance) is a goldmine, with 25% growth potential.

Tourism: Unveiling the Steppe

Tourism is rebounding, with 8 million visitors in 2023 (pre-pandemic levels), per the Ministry of Culture and Sports. Natural wonders like the Tian Shan mountains and Charyn Canyon draw eco-tourists.

Business ideas: Adventure tour operators, glamping sites, and cultural experiences in yurt stays. 2025 sees boosts from Expo legacies and visa-free policies for 80+ countries.

Invest $200,000 for a mid-range operation. Risks: Seasonality and infrastructure gaps outside cities. Partner with Kazakh Tourism for promotion.

Register, get licenses from local tourism boards, and target 15-20% profits by bundling with Silk Road itineraries.

Manufacturing: Building Local Strength

Manufacturing grew 4% in 2023, with focus on machinery and chemicals. Popular: Food processing and automotive parts, supported by the Industrialization Map.

Start with $300,000 in zones like SEZ "Ontustik". Risks: Import dependencies. I've seen successes in Almaty factories exporting to EAEU markets.

Retail and E-Commerce: Consumer Surge

Urbanization drives retail, with e-commerce at 10% of sales. Businesses: Online marketplaces and specialty stores.

Low entry: $50,000. Use platforms like Kaspi for integration.

Green Energy: Emerging Frontier

Solar and wind projects are rising, with 1 GW capacity added by 2023. Popular: Renewable installations.

Invest $1 million+. Government targets 50% renewables by 2050.

In conclusion, Kazakhstan's most popular businesses in 2025 blend traditional strengths with innovative diversification. From oil's stability to IT's dynamism, opportunities abound for those ready to navigate the landscape. Based on my experience, success hinges on local partnerships and adaptability to reforms.

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, website b2bhub.ltd, WhatsApp +44 7700183957, or Telegram @b2bhub_execution.