Grain Exports, Investment Projects, and Logistics: Key Topics of Bektenov and Chunlin’s Meeting

The bilateral trade turnover between Kazakhstan and China grew by 9% in 2024, reaching $43.8 billion, reflecting a strong trade and economic partnership. These and other key areas of cooperation were discussed by Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and China’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Han Chunlin during a meeting, according to the Prime Minister’s press service.

The discussions focused on enhancing trade and economic relations, investments, agriculture, transport, logistics, energy, tourism, and cultural collaboration.

Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the importance of diversifying trade between the two countries and highlighted the need to expand the range of exported goods. Specific attention was given to increasing Kazakhstan’s grain exports to China by improving grain logistics and including more Kazakh companies in the Chinese export registry.

The two sides also discussed joint investment projects. China ranks among Kazakhstan’s top five investors. To date, 62 projects worth $8.7 billion have been completed, creating 11,000 jobs. Another 55 projects, valued at $13.5 billion, are in progress, expected to generate 17,400 jobs. Overall, the investment portfolio includes 222 projects worth over $60.5 billion.

Transport and logistics development was another key focus. According to Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ), cargo transportation between Kazakhstan and China grew by 13% over 11 months in 2024, reaching 29.3 million tons. The two countries discussed modernizing border checkpoints and developing cross-border shipping to further increase cargo volumes.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the partnership and advancing joint efforts across all priority areas.