China proposes Kazakhstan to open new QazTrade mission in Shandong

A deputy head of the People’s Government of Shandong has proposed that Kazakhstani QazTrade open its trade mission in the province to represent Kazakhstan’s interests in the region more effectively. The official suggested a meeting with the Minister of Trade and Integration of Kazakhstan, Arman Shakkaliyev, the trade agency reported.

The representative from the People’s Government of Shandong also suggested establishing a working mechanism to boost trade, improve trade policy and expand economic cooperation. In response, Shakkaliyev stated that he is ready to consider the proposal, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Shandong.

He noted that Kazakhstan can export agricultural products, such as frozen meat, to Shandong. From January to July, the trade turnover between Kazakhstan and the Chinese province amounted to $869.1 million, with $348 million in exports and $521 million in imports.

Currently, QazTrade operates representative offices in Sichuan, Hubei and Xinjiang. The minister noted that trade with China has been developing under the regional principle since last year.

QazTrade is a state-controlled company managed by the Ministry of Trade of Kazakhstan. The company helps exporters reimburse part of their expenses and promotes non-commodity exports by small and medium-sized businesses from Kazakhstan.