Kazakhstan Breaks 13-Year Grain Export Record — 9 Million Tons Shipped

Grain and flour exports from Kazakhstan showed significant growth in the first five months of 2025, with total shipments increasing by 35.2% compared to the same period last year, reaching 11.8 million tons. Of this volume, 9 million tons accounted for grain exports — the highest figure in the past 13 years.

This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin during a government meeting. He noted that the increase in export volumes had a positive impact on related sectors of the economy, particularly transportation and trade services.

Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Azerbaijan have become the main markets for Kazakh grain and flour this year. The geography of exports confirms a stable demand from neighboring trading partners and Kazakhstan's important role as a grain exporter in the region.

According to the Deputy Prime Minister, Kazakhstan's total foreign trade turnover for January–May amounted to $53.5 billion. Of this, $29.8 billion came from exports, including $10.2 billion from processed goods. Imports totaled $23.8 billion.

Positive trends were also observed in the manufacturing sector, which showed an overall production growth of 5.5%. The growth was driven by increased output in the following key industries:
• Mechanical engineering — 11.1%
• Food production — 10%
• Oil refining — 9.6%
• Metal product manufacturing — 14.6%
• Construction materials — 8.6%
• Chemical industry products — 7%

Experts attribute these gains to rising external demand for Kazakh products, improved logistics, and the ongoing expansion of the country's industrial base.