Preferential Financing and Export: How Kazakhstan Is Transforming Livestock Farming

A meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin was held in Astana to discuss comprehensive measures for the development of livestock farming. The main topics included import substitution, industry financing, and the expansion of export potential. One of the key directions is the implementation of the Australian model in beef cattle breeding. In 2025, 10 priority projects worth a total of 27.4 billion tenge are planned for implementation. According to preliminary estimates, these projects could enable the export of up to 50,000 tons of meat, with expected revenue of around 500 billion tenge.

To support breed transformation and increase productivity in beef cattle breeding, a new preferential loan product has been developed with an annual interest rate of 5%. It allows farmers to purchase pedigree breeding stock. A similar mechanism has also been introduced for meat processing plants and feedlots, aimed at replenishing working capital. One of the conditions for receiving the loan is that at least 70% of the livestock must be sold to domestic processors equipped with deep processing lines.

According to the results of an inspection conducted with the participation of regional administrations, the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs, and the veterinary service, 28 out of 128 feedlots met the necessary criteria, with a combined capacity of more than 148,000 head. Out of 36 meat processing plants, 24 were deemed suitable.

This approach is forming a full production chain — from farmers to feedlots to meat processors, and then to export markets. Ensuring working capital at every stage will help increase the output of products with high added value.

In parallel, development of the dairy sector continues. In 2023, the construction of 69 dairy farms was financed for a total of 100 billion tenge. Of these, 39 farms have already been commissioned, and the remaining 30 are expected to be completed by the end of this year. The projected annual production volume is 423.7 thousand tons of milk.

Veterinary safety remains a priority. Effective efforts in this area have led to the removal of several export restrictions. Negotiations are ongoing with China (for cattle hides), Turkey (for meat products), and Afghanistan and Pakistan (for meat and dairy products).