PM Bektenov urges new approaches to light industry development
Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov on Thursday convened a meeting focusing on light industry advancement following presidential directives on economic diversification and boosting domestic manufacturing, Qazinform News Agency cites primeminister.kz.
Ministers of National Economy, Industry and Construction, Agriculture, Finance, alongside heads of Samruk-Kazyna, Atameken, and Baiterek, attended the meeting. Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin noted the sector's high social significance, highlighting that female workers account for 60 percent of light industry employment.
Minister of Industry and Construction Yersayin Nagaspayev reported on the 2026 industrial outlook, noting that the manufacturing sector has achieved 9.9 percent growth, with light industry output increasing 2.2 times. While 2025 concluded with a 260 billion tenge production volume, the minister highlighted that imported goods continue to dominate the industry.
Discussions focused on boosting the manufacturing and processing of finished goods. Key priorities included upgrading industrial infrastructure, expanding production capacity, enhancing localization, strengthening the competitiveness of local manufacturers, and workforce development. Special emphasis was placed on supporting Kazakhstani producers, with the Register of Domestic Manufacturers serving as a key tool for targeted support.
Kanat Sharlapaev, Chairman of the Presidium of the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs, has proposed strengthening certification for special-purpose light industry products to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Strengthening economic potential is an important task set by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Following the adoption of the new Constitution, the Government is reinforcing the development of the manufacturing sector. The results of the first four months of this year demonstrate steady growth in processing. Light industry has high social significance. We need to expand support measures for domestic producers, stated Bektenov.
Following the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to create a model that will provide an additional incentive for Kazakhstani producers to increase production while guaranteeing market access.
Earlier, Qazinform reported Kazakhstan is preparing a comprehensive program to boost light industry.