Kazakhstan positions itself as regional AI and space technology hub
Kazakhstan is strengthening its position as a regional center for artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and space technology, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev said in comments to Silk Way TV, Qazinform News Agency reports.
The country is increasingly positioning itself as a platform for major international technology forums and exhibitions, including JIDEX, Central Asia and COCOS.
“It’s the first truly international exhibition that came to Kazakhstan and will stay here on an annual basis. We managed to bring JIDEX, Central Asia and COCOS, the regional forum, to Kazakhstan. So Kazakhstan will be a home for this international forum,” Madiyev said.
According to the minister, 85% of the participating companies are completely new to Kazakhstan. Some of them have never previously entered the Kazakh market, increasing the country’s visibility among international investors and major technology firms.
“We have a competitive advantage in terms of cheap energy, in terms of low latency connectivity, in terms of friendly regulation for hyperscalers, big tech companies, and we can provide a preferential tax regime,” he said.
Kazakhstan is also expanding its focus on the space sector as part of efforts to diversify the economy beyond oil and gas exports.
“We are building our own launch pad, Baiterek, testing it right now with the Sunkar launch vehicle, and I believe it will allow us to grab some market share,” Madiyev stated.
The country is seeking to benefit from rising global demand for satellite launches, while the international launch market remains highly concentrated, particularly around SpaceX.
“And there is a huge queue for satellite launches. I think that there is an opportunity for Kazakhstan,” he added.
The development of low-altitude economy projects and the large-scale Alatau City infrastructure initiative are also viewed as part of Kazakhstan’s emerging technology-driven economic model.
“This is the new economy that Kazakhstan is able to move forward in order to diversify out of oil and gas exports,” he said.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that Kazakhstan had approved 20 digital transformation roadmaps based on the AI-First principle, covering 72 industries and sectors across the economy.