$44 billion and beyond: Kazakhstan and China target barrier-free trade
The trade volume between Kazakhstan and China reached $43.8 billion in 2024, as both countries work toward developing barrier-free trade. Beijing recently hosted the 12th meeting of the Kazakhstan-China Cooperation Committee.
Kazakhstan’s delegation, led by First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar, held multiple negotiations with Chinese officials. The two sides signed agreements to deepen cooperation, including interdepartmental partnerships in water resource management and archival systems.
Key discussion points included facilitating trade, enhancing transport connectivity, boosting local production and advancing joint investment projects. Particular focus was placed on expanding ties in industry, agriculture, energy, transport and logistics.
During the visit, Kazakhstani officials met with representatives from China’s leading companies in metallurgy, energy, mechanical engineering and agribusiness. Talks centered on potential joint projects in coal chemistry, carmaking, deep agricultural processing and renewable energy.
Sklyar emphasized that industrial growth is a strategic priority for Kazakhstan and urged Chinese businesses to expand partnerships with Kazakhstani entrepreneurs. In response, Chinese industry leaders expressed confidence in Kazakhstan as a trusted partner for strategic projects.
Despite the momentum in trade relations, Kazakhstan’s foreign trade turnover in January 2025 stood at $9.1 billion, marking a 10.3% decline year-on-year.
