Chinese companies are considering establishing production facilities in Stepnogorsk, Akmola region, for drones, light two-seat helicopters and renewable energy equipment. The projects are part of a package of joint Kazakhstan-China initiatives involving a total of $70 million in investment.
A memorandum of understanding was signed by the Akmola region administration, Kazakh holding company TauKen Group, owned by businessman Adil Abay, and Changzhou Chenwei International Trade Co., Ltd. (Chenwei Group), a Chinese company coordinating a group of investors from Changzhou. National investment promotion company Kazakh Invest is overseeing the implementation of the projects.
Eight projects under consideration
TauKen Group and Chenwei Group began collaborating in June 2026. The companies initially signed a memorandum of cooperation in Astana, followed by a framework investment agreement in Changzhou, China, covering joint projects in industry, logistics and high technology.
Under the agreement, the partners are considering eight investment projects in Kazakhstan. In addition to the planned $70 million investment, the parties expect to establish additional production facilities with a combined value of $160 million. Chinese investors are expected to hold a 51% stake in the future project companies, while TauKen Group would hold 49%.
The proposed projects include manufacturing unmanned aerial vehicles, light two-seat helicopters, renewable energy equipment, clothing, metal products and Big Bags, or flexible intermediate bulk containers.
The partners are also considering projects to expand the fleet of construction and mining equipment and recycle used oil and gas pipes and man-made mineral formations.
Drone and helicopter production in Stepnogorsk
Stepnogorsk officials showcased the available industrial sites, infrastructure, and government support incentives to Chinese investors.
The parties are considering localizing UAV and light helicopter production in the city with the participation of Wuxi Hanhe Aviation Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. and Changzhou Zhonglian Aviation Technology Co., Ltd.
Production of renewable energy equipment could also be established in Stepnogorsk, with the participation of Changzhou Shenglai Solar Technology Co., Ltd. and Jiangsu Meiertai Smart Lighting Technology Co., Ltd.
Following the talks, the parties agreed to continue work on the projects, including selecting sites and connecting future facilities to utility networks.
