Kazakhstan’s Economic Transition: Diversifying from Oil to Industry
Kazakh First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar recently sat down for an interview with the prime minister’s press service to discuss the country’s industrial development and economic growth. In the interview, Sklyar highlighted the shift from an oil-based economy to one focused on the industrial sector.
Sklyar emphasized the importance of the processing industry, which now contributes 12.3% of the country’s GDP, and the mining and metallurgical industry, which accounts for 12.6%. He stressed the need for existing enterprises to reinvest in their production and increase production volumes to achieve growth in the processing industry.
Regarding the challenges in the manufacturing industry, Sklyar mentioned the lack of access to the sea as a major issue. He highlighted the investments made in infrastructure development in Kazakhstan to improve transportation and logistics, mentioning the construction of the third railway crossing, Bakhty-Ayagoz, which provides access to China.
When asked about competition with Russia within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), Sklyar emphasized the importance of maintaining competition among goods produced in member states to stimulate producers. He also discussed the need for localization and support for the industry to encourage domestic production and job creation.
Looking ahead, Sklyar expressed confidence in the country’s industrial future, mentioning plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 and double the GDP by 2029. He highlighted the potential for growth in petrochemicals, coal, oil, and gas chemistry, as well as the importance of achieving food and industrial independence.
On the topic of scrap collection, Sklyar addressed the politicized nature of the issue and the benefits of the recycling fee in supporting environmental programs and economic development. He emphasized the importance of funds generated from the recycling fee in stimulating domestic production and creating jobs.
In conclusion, Sklyar reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting every industry in various ways and striving for continuous improvement. The interview provided valuable insights into Kazakhstan’s industrial development and economic growth under Sklyar’s leadership.
