Kazakhstan's Non-Commodity Exports Increased by Nearly 12% in 2024

At the end of 2024, Kazakhstan’s total foreign trade volume reached USD 141.4 billion, which is 1.3% higher than the previous year. A particularly noticeable increase was observed in the segment of food exports, which totaled USD 2.8 billion, confirming stable demand for Kazakhstani food products in neighboring countries and Middle Eastern markets.

According to the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the country's total exports increased to USD 81.6 billion, up 3.2% from 2023. At the same time, imports slightly declined to USD 59.8 billion (a 1% year-over-year decrease).

Special attention in 2024 was given to non-commodity exports, which showed positive dynamics. Their volume rose by 11.9%, reaching USD 28.8 billion. The Ministry emphasized that diversifying the export structure remains one of the country’s key trade policy priorities.

The successful start of 2025 confirms the continued momentum. In January–February, Kazakhstan exported goods worth USD 11.2 billion, of which USD 3.6 billion came from the non-commodity sector. As a result, the share of non-commodity exports in the country’s overall trade turnover is approaching 35%.

Kazakhstan’s main trading partners remain Russia, China, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Russia maintains its status as the largest buyer of Kazakhstan’s non-commodity products, with USD 8.1 billion worth of exports in 2024. China, as a strategic partner, imported USD 7.19 billion worth of Kazakhstani goods. The other countries also demonstrated steady positive growth.

To further strengthen export positions, Kazakhstan is actively developing its foreign trade infrastructure. In 2024, special focus was placed on the creation and modernization of cross-border hubs, with the Khorgos, Caspian, and Eurasian logistics nodes named as priority projects. These efforts aim to optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve product competitiveness.

As part of its economic diplomacy strategy, Kazakhstan is also expanding its trade presence abroad. New trade missions were opened in Turkey, China, the UAE, India, and Iran in 2024. These representations are expected to deepen trade ties and facilitate access to foreign markets for domestic producers.

However, the Ministry also highlighted a number of systemic challenges — including logistical barriers, high transportation costs, and difficulties with international certification. In response, active efforts are underway to simplify procedures, improve access to certification systems, and enhance conditions for export-oriented businesses.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
• Kazakhstan’s total foreign trade in 2024: USD 141.4 billion; exports – USD 81.6 billion; imports – USD 59.8 billion
• Non-commodity exports grew by 11.9%, reaching USD 28.8 billion — nearly 35% of total trade turnover
• Main partners: Russia, China, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan. Logistics hubs and foreign trade offices are expanding