Kazakhstan is launching a comprehensive strategy to boost economic growth by strengthening special economic zones (SEZs) and expanding rare-earth metal production, as announced by Industry and Construction Minister Yersayin Nagaspayev during a government meeting chaired by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov
To improve SEZ efficiency, the government will conduct a comprehensive review of their performance and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to ensure investors fulfill their obligations. The country also plans to introduce a framework for foreign companies to manage certain SEZs, while local authorities will intensify efforts to attract new investors.
In addition to SEZs, the government has identified rare-earth metal production as a key area for development. Kazakhstan plans to implement at least three major projects in this field, focusing on the production of battery materials, recycling and manufacturing heat-resistant alloys for jet engines, developing semiconductor components, and reprocessing permanent magnets.
The country has already established strategic partnerships with leading players from the European Union, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and China. Upcoming projects include the launch of gallium production with an annual capacity of 15 tons, the manufacturing of high-purity manganese sulfate, and the production of graphite for battery components.
Kazakhstan is also taking significant steps to modernize its geological exploration and mapping. A next-generation geological map will be developed using advanced digital tools, with project preparations already underway and fieldwork scheduled to begin in 2026. The government has allocated funding for new surveying methods, including aerogeophysics, geochemistry, spectral imaging, and high-resolution satellite data analysis.
Furthermore, the country is introducing a unified digital platform to consolidate all processes related to construction and housing management. The platform will be introduced by the end of 2025 and is expected to enhance efficiency and transparency in the sector.
The reforms are part of Kazakhstan’s efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil exports. The country aims to become a major player in the global rare-earth market and to attract foreign investment in its SEZs.
