Kazakhstan strengthens its position on the international stage: Key outcomes of the First Trade Policy Review of Kazakhstan at the WTO

The First Trade Policy Review of the Republic of Kazakhstan since its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) was held at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. The delegation of Kazakhstan was led by the Vice Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Kairat Torebayev, with the participation of various government officials from Kazakhstan.

During the review, Permanent Representatives from more than 30 WTO members, including leading economies such as Brazil, China, the European Union, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and others, expressed support for Kazakhstan’s trade policies.

This version lists the countries in correct alphabetical order. These members recognized Kazakhstan’s significant contribution to strengthening the multilateral trading system. In their statements, they particularly highlighted Kazakhstan’s efforts to diversify its economy and implement trade and economic reforms, including simplifying trade procedures, enhancing transparency, and supporting the stability and predictability of global trade.

Permanent Representatives of these countries also highly praised Kazakhstan’s reforms aimed at simplifying trade procedures, which play a key role in restoring supply chains and adapting to changes in logistical networks. WTO members acknowledged that Kazakhstan has fully met its obligations under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Key achievements include the complete digitalization of customs processes, the implementation of the "Single Window" system for export-import operations, and the "ASTANA-1" platform, developed in partnership with UNCTAD, based on the UN's Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA). Kazakhstan is also progressing towards the next stage of modernization by developing a new information platform, "KEDEN."

In addition, the heads of permanent missions in Geneva highlighted Kazakhstan’s strategic reforms aimed at modernizing the agro-industrial complex and creating a favorable investment climate, particularly within the framework of the Concept for Investment Policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan until 2026. These measures are contributing to Kazakhstan's integration into the international trading system and strengthening its position in global markets.

Several WTO members expressed their readiness to continue strategic cooperation with Kazakhstan, emphasizing the importance of strengthening bilateral trade and expanding cooperation across various economic sectors. These statements reflect the high level of trust in Kazakhstan as a reliable trading partner on the global stage.

Overall, the First Trade Policy Review of Kazakhstan at the WTO was a significant milestone event, demonstrating the country’s fulfillment of its commitments made upon joining the Organization. This process serves as a collective review by all WTO members, aimed at assessing Kazakhstan’s trade and economic policies, their transparency, and compliance with international standards. The review provides an opportunity not only to evaluate current successes and challenges but also to receive recommendations for further improvement of trade processes.