Astana: a strategic hub for trade in Central Asia

Astana is strengthening its position as one of Central Asia’s leading commercial and financial hubs. This was one of the key conclusions of a working session held by specialists together with the President of ACIR Southern Europe to examine trade and investment opportunities between Southern Europe and the region.

The meeting explored Kazakhstan’s business environment and the instruments offered by the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), including its international legal and financial framework.

Particular attention was also given to the solutions provided by national and international banks for foreign trade, transaction financing and international expansion.

Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and food products were identified as sectors with particularly strong potential. For each of these areas, ACIR has developed mechanisms designed to facilitate market access and connect Central Asian partners with European manufacturers and suppliers under improved conditions.

The objective is to leverage Kazakhstan’s strategic position and develop projects from Astana that enable companies to expand throughout Central Asia with specialized support and access to financial and commercial instruments.