Kazakhstan Becomes Bavaria’s Leading Trade Partner in CIS and Central Asia
ASTANA – Kazakhstan has established itself as Bavaria’s top trading partner in Central Asia by volume, as confirmed by Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs, Regional Development, and Energy Hubert Aiwanger during the Kazakh-Bavarian Business Dialogue roundtable on April 4.
The event saw a Kazakh delegation led by First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar participating, continuing his visit to Germany after meetings in the federal state of Hesse. Representatives from companies such as Horsch, Linde Gas AG, and Rhenus shared insights on operating in Kazakhstan and the country’s expanding financial and business opportunities.
Aiwanger commended Kazakhstan’s economic growth and diversification efforts during a bilateral meeting, emphasizing the alignment between the Bavarian and Kazakh economies. The upcoming launch of direct Shymkent-Munich flights by the end of May was highlighted as a significant development to enhance connectivity.
Sklyar also engaged with Bavaria’s European and International Affairs Minister Eric Beißwenger, expressing mutual interest in broadening business and humanitarian cooperation with Kazakhstan. Bavaria stands out as Germany’s leading state in economic advancement, with bilateral trade between Kazakhstan and Bavaria reaching 4.7 billion euros (US$5.1 billion) in 2024, representing a substantial portion of Kazakhstan’s trade with Germany.
Notably, Kazakh oil accounts for approximately 50% of Bavaria’s oil imports, showcasing the critical role Kazakhstan plays in Bavaria’s economy. While Kazakhstan ranks 43rd among Germany’s trading partners overall, it holds the 21st position for Bavaria specifically. Additionally, in terms of import volume, Kazakhstan ranks 15th in Bavaria, surpassing other key trading nations like Belgium, Turkey, Japan, Vietnam, and South Korea.
The strong trade relations between Kazakhstan and Bavaria underscore the potential for further collaboration and growth between the two regions.
