🤝 Highlights from the Program:
- KAZAKH INVEST JSC – Hosted by Deputy Chairman of the Management Board, Mr. Madiyar Sultanbek, the session provided an in-depth overview of Kazakhstan’s investment environment and government incentives available to foreign companies.
- Fisheries Committee of the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan – Led by Mr. Serik Sermagambetov, Chairman of the Committee, the delegation explored the growing potential of Kazakhstan’s aquaculture and sustainable fisheries sector.
- National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “Atameken” (Astana CCI) – The meeting was led by Mr. Murat Karimsakov, Chairman of the Board of the Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan.
Discussions focused on current economic trends and opportunities for bilateral cooperation. Initial steps were taken to plan upcoming activities within the framework of the Norwegian-Kazakh Business Council, which was established between our chambers in December 2024.
- Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) Association – Ms. Nurgul Zhakupova, Acting Secretary General of the International Association, shared Kazakhstan’s logistics vision and presented to the delegates the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.
- Ministry of Industry and Construction – A forward-looking dialogue led Mr. Nursultan Keremkulov, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Construction and Housing, focused on large-scale infrastructure and housing sector investment opportunities.
- Nazarbayev University – A truly impressive institution, ranked among the world’s top 200 universities by THE, where we were warmly welcomed by Ms. Kadisha Dairova, Vice President for Student Affairs and International Cooperation, to discuss R&D and talent collaboration opportunities.
- Astana Hub – At the heart of Kazakhstan’s digital transformation, we explored opportunities in the innovation and startup ecosystem during a guided visit to the tech park.
- Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) – A strategic meeting led by Member of the Board & Chief Innovation Officer Mr. Talgat Amanbayev offered insights into Kazakhstan’s ambitions as a financial services hub for the region.
- Akimat of Astana & Astana Invest – This session focused on urban development, municipal incentives, and regulatory frameworks supporting foreign businesses.
🎯 Key Outcomes and Feedback:
Our delegation is sincerely grateful for this well-curated and content-rich program. It provided a deep and practical understanding of the Kazakh market, including its regulatory environment, emerging sectors, and government priorities. The program also enabled delegates to form valuable sector-specific and cross-industry contacts.
As a result, several Norwegian companies are now actively exploring concrete opportunities for market entry, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships in Kazakhstan. The openness and professionalism of our Kazakh counterparts left a strong impression on all participants and confirmed Kazakhstan’s position as a serious and attractive business destination in Central Asia.
Kazakhstan is actively fostering a pro-business, innovation-driven environment, with robust support for foreign investors.
The regulatory framework is evolving positively, making it easier for international companies to enter and thrive.
Sectors such as green tech, aquaculture, logistics, research, and construction present strong growth prospects.
We also enjoyed meaningful moments over dinners hosted by EAST CCI and Astana CCI, and participated in the Astana International Forum 2025, including the Gala Concert at Astana Opera House.
EAST CCI gives a heartfelt thank you to all involved parties—and especially to the Kazakhstan Embassy in Oslo for their instrumental support throughout the process.
We look forward to building on this momentum—and to future collaboration between Norwegian and Kazakh businesses!
We’ve just concluded an inspiring and productive business delegation trip to Kazakhstan, where we explored strategic opportunities in Central Asia and deepened partnerships with local institutions.
Our business delegation to Kazakhstan was met with exceptional hospitality and professionalism, resulting in a highly productive and insightful visit. We had the privilege of engaging directly with a range of key national institutions and high-level representatives, each offering valuable perspectives on the country’s economic priorities and partnership potential.