Doubling output of existing medium-sized enterprises is Kazakhstan’s aim

A strategy to help existing medium-sized enterprises increase their production capacity two to threefold is being developed by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of National Economy, in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). It is part of the “Improving the Investment Attractiveness of Medium-Sized Businesses” program, that Deputy Minister of National Economy Yerlan Sagnaev announced at a press conference hosted by the Central Communications Service. He said that companies will receive state-backed support in the form of diagnostic assessments and customized development plans.
As Sagnaev noted, metallurgy, light industry, construction materials, mechanical engineering, and chemicals are the most active sectors. Consequently, the state plans to prioritize them through joint programs with the EBRD.
Aldo, ministry data shows that the share for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kazakhstan’s GDP is now 39.8%. The sector’s total output increased by 25% in the first half of 2025 and reached $82.6 billion. The rise of employment in the SME segment attained 3.9% (totally 4.4 million people). The highest growth was in trade, industry, construction, transport, and agriculture.
Nevertheless, according to a recent Business Climate rating by the “Atameken” National Chamber of Entrepreneurs, only 10.1% of small businesses are interested in launching new projects, while 35.4% plan to expand. It means modest requests for government support (18.8%). Also, 6.2% of respondents are considering staff cuts or closures.
According to Timur Zharkenov, Deputy Chairman of the Atameken Board, a high tax burden (28.1%), labor shortages (16.2%), and inconsistent support from local authorities for investment initiatives makes medium-sized businesses the most concerned by pressing.
As a result, a decline in orders and a rise in production costs in autumn 2025 demonstrated the urgency of state support and the need to improve operational efficiency of domestic manufacturers.

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