AGP Executive Report

Kazakhstan–Morocco Trade Boost: Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry says trade with Morocco jumped 68% to about $451mn, with both sides pushing to diversify cooperation, including autos, digital economy, and agriculture. Digital Governance: Kazakhstan has registered the first data exchange platforms under the Digital Code—MedHub, Astana Data Exchange, and Kompra—aiming to kick-start a national data market with secure, regulated sharing. Elections & Constitution Updates: OSCE/ODIHR will send 22 long-term observers for Qurultay elections on Aug. 23, while the CEC has accredited 96 international observers total; meanwhile, the new Constitution is now available in audio and video formats. Health & Society: Over 16,000 Kazakhstanis have registered as posthumous organ donors, as the eGov.kz system expands consent tracking. Energy Disruption: Kazakhstan temporarily halted CPC oil loadings after drone attacks, cutting daily output to prevent tank overflow and protect safety. Satellite Funding: The government allocated about $22mn for KazSat-3R to replace KazSat-3 by decade’s end.

Jobs & Wages: Kazakhstan’s formal workforce grew by nearly 150,000 in Q1 2026, with employment reaching 9.392 million; unemployment stayed at 4.5% while youth unemployment was 3%. Education & Science: Kazakhstan plans to launch a KAIST branch in Alatau, aiming to deepen research ties and improve access to international scientific databases. Space & Connectivity: The government approved over KZT10bn for KazSat-3R to replace KazSat-3, boosting broadband access and information security. Oil & Security: Oil prices jumped as Iran-US tensions and shipping risks mounted, while Kazakhstan’s main Black Sea export route faced disruptions after drone attacks near CPC. Regional Mobility: The Karkyra checkpoint extended summer hours for Kyrgyzstan–Kazakhstan crossings. Agriculture Innovation: Kazakhstan and China signed a biopesticide cooperation deal to localize biological crop protection production. Sports: Kazakhstan opened the CAVA volleyball championship with a hard-fought win over Nepal (3-2).

Fuel Crisis Fallout: Russian troops report gasoline shortages and tighter refueling limits as Ukraine strikes hit refineries, with some soldiers getting just 10–20 liters per vehicle per day. Digital Tenge Rollout: Kazakhstan says integration with the Finance Ministry’s systems will be finished in August, paving the way for the digital tenge to be used in state procurement from August for goods, medicines, fuel and more. Kazakhstan–China Industry Push: A Kazakhstan-China forum highlights deeper cooperation in non-ferrous metals, with plans to expand mining and metallurgy projects and workforce training. Transport & Trade Links: Iran and China chamber officials discuss a joint transport corridor via Khorgos to boost trade, while Kazakhstan’s rail network expands satellite internet to multiple passenger routes. Education Expansion: Kazakhstan reports rapid growth of foreign university partnerships, with dozens of branches and thousands of students enrolled. Sports & Culture: Kazakhstan’s Zhanibek Alimkhanuly moves up after a doping suspension; Pavlodar audiences attend a documentary film lecture series; and Kazakhstan’s foreign policy diplomacy continues with ambassadorial updates. Oil Export Pressure: Kazakhstan temporarily halts CPC-related oil exports amid drone attacks and Black Sea tanker risks.

Oil Supply Shock: Brent jumped to a five-week high as US-Iran strikes and Houthi threats raise fears of wider shipping disruptions, with Kazakhstan’s exports hit by repeated attacks around the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) Black Sea terminal near Novorossiysk. Energy Security Watch: The IEA warned that risks to key chokepoints like Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb are pushing uncertainty higher, even as some Gulf and US supply helps cushion the market. Kazakhstan–Oil Dispute: Kazakhstan has warned a consortium including Exxon and Shell it may pursue criminal charges over a $4.9bn environmental fine, as arbitration continues. Wildfire Update: Forest fires in Kazakhstan are up 47.5% year-on-year, with high danger classes declared in several regions including Almaty. Economy & Work: Kazakhstan’s 2025 workforce averaged 5.68m employees, while real wages fell after inflation. Tech & Education: Network School is looking to open in Kazakhstan after Malaysia revoked its Forest City license. Sports: Kazakhstan’s Timofey Skatov advanced in Portugal; Yulia Putintseva reached the Hamburg Round of 16.

Black Sea Oil Security: Kazakhstan has suspended oil deliveries to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium terminal near Novorossiysk after drone attacks on tankers, with Bloomberg reporting tanker firms are too afraid to load and production may be adjusted if the disruption drags on. Legal Pressure on Kashagan: Astana has started enforcement proceedings to collect a $4.8bn environmental fine from the Kashagan operator NCOC, warning the consortium’s head of possible criminal liability after non-payment. Aviation Cargo Push: SCAT Airlines signed with Boeing to convert a 767-300ER into a 767-300BCF, aiming to launch freighter operations and grow Kazakhstan’s Asia–Europe–Middle East cargo role. Games of the Future 2026: Astana released the Phygital Games schedule (July 29–Aug 9), featuring PUBG, Dota 2, Counter-Strike, phygital football and more, with 800+ participants expected. Elections Watch: Kazakhstan’s CEC accredited international observers for Aug. 23 Kurultai deputy elections, including ODIHR and CIS bodies, as preparations continue under the new constitution. Shadow Economy Crackdown: The government approved a 2026–2028 plan to cut the shadow economy using AI monitoring and digital tenge tools.

Black Sea Energy Security: Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry condemned repeated Ukrainian drone attacks on civilian tankers and CPC infrastructure near Novorossiysk, saying the strikes violate Kazakhstan’s economic interests and risk major losses; CPC says loading was briefly halted after hits on vessels including the NELSA, with fires extinguished and no oil spill reported, while Kazakhstan says it will seek compensation and protect its rights under international law. Aviation Connectivity: Astana–Shanghai direct flights are set to start this autumn (three weekly at first, aiming for daily), boosting tourism and business links; Kazakhstan also plans more China routes, including Almaty–Chongqing. AI Diplomacy: China launched the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) with 29 countries including Kazakhstan, framing it as multilateral AI governance and capacity-building. Local Economy & Infrastructure: Kazakhstan opened 30 schools and 30 kindergartens in H1 2026 and began a harvest campaign across multiple regions, reporting strong grain yields; the government also approved a plan to cut the shadow economy via a digital platform integrating tax, customs, labor and industry data. Culture & Sports: Kazakh singer Akerke Amalyat won first prize at Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk; Kazakhstan also continues sports diplomacy with Pakistan via the Qazaq Kuresi coaching programme. Business & Travel: British fintech Pockit appointed Kazakh Burger King franchise founder Anuar Utemuratov as a director, while FlyArystan announced Almaty–Chongqing flights launching Sept. 23.

Caspian Pipeline Consortium Security: Kazakhstan is closely monitoring renewed drone attacks on tankers loading Kazakh crude at the CPC Black Sea terminal, with loading suspended after strikes on the vessels Asia/Nissos Ios and again on Nelsa; authorities say there were no injuries or oil spills, but Kazakhstan condemns the attacks as an infringement on its economic interests and warns of risks to global energy security. AI Governance in Focus: Indonesia has joined WAICO as a founding member, signing the declaration in Shanghai as countries compete to shape AI rules; the move positions Kazakhstan among the early WAICO participants. Kazakhstan–China Digital Trade: Kazakhstan and China opened the IBI Digital Economy Hub in Almaty to boost digital commerce, cross-border logistics, and joint investment, with plans for a high-tech industrial park. Local Tech & Mobility: Li Auto launched the All-New Li L9 in Kazakhstan and signed an MOU with Allur to assemble Li vehicles locally in Kostanay, making Kazakhstan the first production base outside China. Agriculture & Industry: Work is under way on Kazakhstan’s first full-cycle cotton-textile cluster in Turkistan, using AI tools to track water and crop conditions and expanding processing capacity. Public Safety Tech: Police in Karaganda used a mobile facial-recognition robot during Metallurgist Day events to identify people sought for legal or administrative violations. Politics Ahead of Kurultai: Four parties have registered candidate lists for the Aug. 23 Kurultai elections, while others are still submitting documents; 76 international observers are accredited.

Energy Security: Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry and Energy Ministry strongly condemned Ukrainian drone attacks on civilian tankers loading Kazakh oil at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) Black Sea terminal, saying no oil spill occurred but loading was suspended while damage is assessed. Diplomacy & Trade: Kazakhstan called the strikes an unacceptable infringement on its economic interests and urged partners to halt attacks and respect an agreed information-sharing mechanism for vessels entering the Black Sea. Agriculture & Trade Tensions: Kazakhstan is set to ban most wheat imports for six months from July 27, a move aimed at curbing undeclared Russian grain but raising the risk of a renewed trade spat. Sports (Kazakhstan in focus): Kazakhstan’s Bakbergenova won silver at a Budapest ranking tournament; wrestlers and other Kazakh athletes also posted results in Hungary. Regional Culture: The SCO film festival in Cholpon-Ata wrapped up with Kazakhstan’s Azat Hakimov winning best screenplay for “Autumn Breeze,” alongside a gala concert featuring performers from SCO countries. Tech & Public Safety: Kazakhstan police in Karaganda used an AI robotic dog to identify debtors and an alimony evader during a large public event.

Ukraine War Update: Russia launched a major ballistic missile and drone barrage on Kyiv and other cities, killing at least six and wounding dozens, as Ukraine again faces limits in air defence supplies. Caspian Energy Security: Drones struck two tankers at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal near Novorossiysk, forcing CPC to suspend oil loadings; the operator reported no casualties or oil spill. Regional Counter-Terrorism: Central Asia’s security chiefs met in Moscow to discuss efforts against terrorism and the supply of weapons to extremist groups, highlighting joint operations and seizures. AI Diplomacy: Kazakhstan joined 29 countries in signing the agreement to create the World AI Cooperation Organization, with talks in Shanghai also stressing deeper Kazakhstan–China cooperation on trade, transport, energy and AI. Sports—Kazakhstan in the Mix: Kazakhstan’s athletes and teams were in the spotlight across events, including wrestling medals in Hungary and Kazakhstan hosting major regional competitions. Local Tech & Policing: Kazakhstan trialed an AI robot dog for law enforcement at large public events in Karaganda Region, helping identify offenders and reunite lost children. Culture & Film: Jackie Chan’s new “Armour of God” installment began filming in Mangystau, using the Bozzhyra tract as a key location.

AI Diplomacy: Xi Jinping told the world at WAIC in Shanghai that AI should be “open” and not a “solo performance,” backing a “symphony of global collaboration” approach while also criticizing U.S. tech curbs. Kazakhstan-China Ties: Tokayev used the same forum to push inclusive AI governance across the whole tech cycle, and reports say Kazakhstan and China signed major deals worth about €11.4bn. Border Security (SCO): SCO border chiefs met in Islamabad, including Kazakhstan, to exchange assessments and approve plans for joint operations “Solidarity-2026” and beyond. Energy/Trade Risk: A drone attack damaged a tanker linked to Kazakhstan’s Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) in the Black Sea; Kazakhstan’s energy ministry says CPC operations and oil exports face no threat. Visa Rules: Kazakhstan published a 2026 list of 48 countries eligible for visa-free entry/exit for up to 30 days per visit. Weather & Safety: Kazhydromet warns of heavy rain, dust storms, and extreme heat up to +48°C, with high fire danger in several regions including Almaty. Tourism Boost: Kazakhstan welcomed a record 15.7 million foreign visitors in 2025, driven by visa liberalization and better air links.

World AI Governance: Kazakhstan is among 29 founding nations signing the Shanghai-based World AI Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), as Xi Jinping urged AI development as a “symphony of global collaboration” and pledged 5,000 training opportunities for developing countries. Kazakhstan–China Deals: Tokayev’s Shanghai visit was tied to major bilateral agreements, including plans for energy and infrastructure projects, while media highlighted China’s offer to share digital economy and AI tech for Kazakhstan’s digital transformation. Visa Rules: Kazakhstan published the 2026 list of 48 countries whose citizens can enter and exit visa-free for up to 30 days per visit, with strict passport requirements. Energy & Safety: Kazakhstan’s Energy Ministry says CPC oil operations are uninterrupted after a drone attack near the Black Sea terminal; the tanker was empty and there’s no threat to Kazakh oil exports. Weather Alert: Kazhydromet warns of extreme heat up to +48°C in southern and southeastern regions, with high fire risk and possible dust storms, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. Education: Admission quotas for 2026–2027 were approved, with 155,852 applicants set for state higher education places. Sports (Almaty): UAE women’s jiu-jitsu team won six medals at the Asian Championship in Almaty Arena.

Global AI Governance: China’s Xi Jinping opened the World AI Conference in Shanghai, urging AI development as a “symphony of global cooperation” rather than a single-country “solo performance,” and pushing people-centered rules, human control, and wider access for developing states. Kazakhstan at WAIC/WAICO: Kazakhstan’s leaders backed the new World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), which was launched with 29 founding countries and aims to shape international AI governance from Shanghai. Earthquake Watch: A magnitude 4.9 quake struck about 200 km northeast of Pavlodar near the Kazakhstan-Russia border region, recorded early on July 18. Diplomacy & Security: Pakistan chaired the SCO border services meeting in Islamabad, with Kazakhstan among participants, reviewing border risks and approving plans for joint operations. Bilateral Ties: Kazakhstan and Cambodia reaffirmed plans to deepen cooperation, including visa-free arrangements for diplomats and new foreign-ministry consultation mechanisms. Sports (Kazakhstan-linked): Kazakhstan’s drone soccer teams placed among the top 10 at the FIDA Intercontinental Cup 2026, highlighting growing youth engineering and digital sport talent.

Global AI Governance: President Xi Jinping announced the creation of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) at the 2026 World AI Conference in Shanghai, calling for “people-centered” AI and a just, equitable system for global AI rules. Kazakhstan’s Tech Push: Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev said the country can become a hub for technological cooperation and digital trade, pointing to AI-focused reforms, data protection guarantees, and plans to expand smart-city platforms. WAICO Founding Role: Kazakhstan is among WAICO’s 29 founding members, with the body set to be headquartered in Shanghai and aimed at international AI cooperation. Payments Upgrade: Kazakhstan launched a unified interbank QR payment system and said transfers will work via phone numbers across banks. Health Tech: An AI stroke diagnosis system in Kazakhstan has cut stroke mortality by 40% in regions where it’s deployed. Elections Watch: Kazakhstan’s Central Election Commission is accrediting 76 international observers for monitoring Aug 23 Qurultay elections. Regional Diplomacy: Tokayev met Cambodia’s PM Hun Manet and Thailand’s PM Anutin, highlighting trade growth and Kazakhstan’s readiness to expand grain and fertilizer supplies. UNIFIL: Kazakhstan peacekeepers raised the national flag at a UNIFIL base in Lebanon.

Heat & Health Preparedness: WHO warns extreme heat is already killing thousands in Europe and urges governments to treat heat as a health emergency, with updated heat-health action guidance and hospital resilience support that includes assessments in Kazakhstan. Semey Ormany Wildfire Response: Kazakhstan’s Emergency Situations Ministry says 600+ personnel, 160+ ground units and 7 helicopters are fighting the Semey Ormany blaze in Abai region; open burning has been extinguished, but crews are still tackling smoldering spots. Kashagan Environmental Fine Fight: Kazakhstan’s Justice Ministry says the NCOC environmental fine is lawful and must be paid, while an UNCITRAL tribunal temporarily blocks Kazakhstan from collecting the KZT 2.3 trillion fine pending arbitration. Kazakhstan–China Deal Push: In Shanghai, Tokayev and Xi backed deeper ties, signing a 2027–2030 trade and economic cooperation roadmap and discussing high-tech cooperation and AI governance. Local Governance Shake-up: Tokayev signed a decree dismissing Atyrau governor Serik Shapkenov; candidates for the Akim post include KazMunayGas chair Askhat Khasenov and Deputy FM Alibek Kuantyrov. Almaty Mobility Rules: Almaty will ban electric scooters on sidewalks from late August and restrict rentals to adults with a driver’s license. Sports: Kazakh wrestler Yedige Kassimbek won gold at the Budapest Ranking Series; Kazakhstan also picked up boxing medals at Asian U19/U23 events.

Kazakhstan–China Power Talks in Shanghai: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met Xi Jinping and reaffirmed the “eternal comprehensive strategic partnership,” citing record $49bn trade last year and $30bn Chinese investment, while agreeing a 2027–2030 roadmap covering trade, investment, AI and regional security. AI on the Global Stage: 29 countries, including Kazakhstan, signed an agreement in Shanghai to create the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, headquartered in Shanghai. Digital Logistics Push: Tokayev said Kazakhstan aims to become a Eurasian logistics hub and is building a unified digital freight ecosystem, including the Smart Cargo “single window” concept. Energy & Industry Deals: Talks highlighted China-backed projects such as a 600MW pumped-storage plant in Almaty region and a major EV battery plant proposal with CATL. Public Safety: A forest fire broke out in the Semey Ormany reserve in Abai region; over 200 personnel and aircraft are responding. Transport Disruption: Air Astana will suspend Dubai flights from July 21 due to security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz. Culture & Tourism: Kazakhstan’s museum reserves reported up to 784,000 visitors in six months.

Space & Science: Kazakhstan’s Baikonur hosted the Soyuz MS-29 launch that delivered NASA astronaut Anil Menon plus Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina to the ISS, with docking about three hours later and an eight-month mission ahead. Water Security: Kazakhstan plans to commission 962 km of irrigation canals by end-2026, boosting water supply for about 200,000 hectares, as modernization work continues across thousands of km. Wildfires: Authorities report a spike in wildfires linked to hot weather, with aerial patrols and rapid firefighting teams deployed across several regions and protected areas. Digital Economy: Kazakhstan is set to officially launch the digital tenge on July 18, with the National Bank running digital accounts and the platform. Trade & Logistics: Kazakhstan is pushing the China–Europe “Middle Corridor,” citing rising freight volumes and major railway/infrastructure expansion plans. Local Media: Elmedia’s editor-in-chief says the outlet’s Facebook page was deleted after a complaint from a fake account, prompting legal action. International Role: Kazakhstan’s 11th UNIFIL peacekeeping contingent has arrived in Lebanon to monitor the ceasefire and support security and humanitarian tasks.