Over the past 18 years, Japanese companies have invested more than $7.8bn in Kazakhstan’s economy, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Alibek Kuantyrov announced during a recent meeting with Japan’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Jun Yamada. The discussion also focused on strategies to deepen trade and economic cooperation between the two nations.

Kuantyrov highlighted Kazakhstan’s potential for expanding investment cooperation with Japan in areas such as transport and logistics, mining and metallurgy, renewable energy, waste recycling, digitalization, and infrastructure. He underscored that the Kazakh government is prepared to offer comprehensive support to Japanese companies looking to undertake projects in Kazakhstan.

“Astana and Tokyo have established an active political dialogue, achieved a high level of economic cooperation, and continue to strengthen cultural and humanitarian ties. We see great potential in expanding cooperation in key sectors of the economy,” Kuantyrov stated.

Ambassador Yamada noted that Kazakhstan is a strategic partner for Japan and that more Japanese companies are showing interest in opening enterprises in Kazakhstan. He mentioned that Japanese companies could assist Kazakhstan in implementing energy projects, developing transport potential, infrastructure, and particularly in the digitalization of the logistics process. 

Yamada also emphasized that the planned opening of direct flights between the two countries in 2026 would strengthen bilateral ties and expand opportunities for business and tourism.

At the end of the meeting, both parties agreed to reinforce their strategic partnership to further enhance economic cooperation.