17.04.2025, 10:03
Kazakhstan Abolishes Export Duties on Hides and Wool for Three Years
Export duties on hides and wool from cattle and small ruminants have been abolished for three years

Starting April 16, 2025, Kazakhstan has officially abolished export customs duties on the export of hides and wool from agricultural animals. The relevant decision was approved by the Interdepartmental Commission on Foreign Trade Policy and Participation in International Economic Organizations. The new regulation will be in effect for three years, with the possibility of extension or revision in the future.
According to sectoral authorities, one of the main reasons behind the measure is the low domestic demand for this type of raw material. In recent years, both processing and foreign sales of hides and wool from cattle and small ruminants have remained low, leading to the accumulation of unsold products and forced disposal.
The abolition of export duties is expected to help agricultural producers reduce losses related to the disposal of livestock by-products and improve farm profitability by opening up greater export opportunities. Additionally, the move is aimed at expanding production and marketing chains and encouraging new investment projects in the area of deep processing.
As of now, under the order of the Ministry of National Economy dated February 27, 2016, the existing export duties were set at €200 per ton for the export of unprocessed hides and 10% (but not less than €50 per ton) for the export of wool. With the removal of these tariffs, domestic producers will gain more flexibility in responding to global market dynamics and enhancing their competitiveness internationally.
The government is also considering additional support in the form of subsidies for raw materials delivered for processing. These measures are expected to not only strengthen the country’s export potential but also ensure the full operation of domestic processing enterprises, many of which have been underutilized in recent years.
To balance domestic needs with export volumes, the Ministry of Agriculture will carry out regular monitoring of the market. If necessary, the ministry reserves the right to promptly adjust regulatory conditions based on price dynamics, production and sales volumes, and the potential launch of new industrial facilities in the agro-industrial sector.
The cancellation of export duties is not only a tactical move to relieve the domestic market but also a strategic step to revitalize the value-added chain in the livestock sector.
Key takeaways:
• Export duties on hides and wool from cattle and small ruminants have been abolished for three years
• Goal: reduce disposal-related losses, boost exports, and improve processing capacity utilization
• Government to monitor market conditions and consider subsidies for processing