U.S.-based multinational Mars, Incorporated, is set to construct a pet food factory in the future city of Alatau, Kazakhstan, with an investment of around $180 million. The relevant agreement was signed during a meeting between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the company’s CEO, Poul Weihrauch.
The president praised the agreement’s conclusion, naming it the beginning of a strategically important partnership. Tokayev emphasized that this step reflects a high level of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United States.
Project details
According to the Akorda press service, the new production facility in Alatau will focus on deep processing of local agricultural raw materials, allowing the country to establish production of high-value-added, export-oriented goods.
In turn, Weihrauch expressed his gratitude to President Tokayev for his support. The Mars CEO said that launching the facility in Kazakhstan will provide a platform for expanding the company’s production and sales in Central Asia and neighboring markets.
Alatau is an ambitious future megacity project in the Almaty region, established in early 2024 on the site of the former village of Zhetygen.
Mars at a glance
Mars, Incorporated is one of the world’s largest private, U.S.-based multinational companies, founded in 1911.
The company’s operations span confectionery and chewing gum to pet food and care products, including the brands Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin, and it also operates a network of veterinary clinics.
Mars remains a fully family-owned business, managed by the founder’s descendants, and is not publicly traded, consistently ranking among the largest private corporations in the U.S.
