Kazakhstan Engineering Forum: Driving Growth and Innovation in Global Markets
The 12th Kazakhstan Engineering Forum recently commenced in Astana on April 24, attracting more than 1,500 industry leaders, government officials, and international partners from over 20 countries. The event aims to facilitate discussions on the progress and future development of the engineering sector in Kazakhstan.
The forum served as a crucial platform to introduce strategic initiatives aimed at modernizing the country’s engineering industry. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov reported a 10% growth in the sector in 2024, followed by an additional 17% increase in the first quarter of this year. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the sector’s pivotal role in ensuring sustainable economic growth in Kazakhstan.
Over the years, the engineering industry’s share in the manufacturing sector has risen from 13% to 19%, with output reaching 4.6 trillion tenge (US$10.2 billion) in 2024. To support innovation and local manufacturing, Kazakh officials presented a roadmap for robotics development along with new tax incentives. These measures are part of broader efforts to enhance domestic capabilities and bolster global competitiveness.
During the forum’s plenary session, industry experts discussed challenges related to raw material supply and financing. Various recommendations were made, including reforming raw material distribution and providing long-term loans for companies involved in high-tech projects. Hyundai Motor Company announced plans to expand local production in Kazakhstan, while Chinese companies expressed interest in forming joint ventures with local partners.
The Kazakhstan Machinery Fair 2025, running concurrently with the forum until April 25 at the EXPO International Exhibition Center, features over 300 exhibitors from countries such as China, Germany, Italy, South Korea, and Switzerland. Additionally, a session focused on the development of railway engineering was held, with companies showcasing solutions for locomotives powered by alternative energy sources and import substitution.
Overall, the 12th Kazakhstan Engineering Forum serves as a significant platform for stakeholders to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and drive innovation in the country’s engineering sector.
