Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan reaffirm their target of increasing bilateral trade to $3 billion, focusing on agriculture, transport connectivity, cross-border logistics, digitalisation and regional economic cooperation.
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan seek to increase bilateral trade to $3 billion by strengthening economic cooperation, agricultural exchanges and transport connectivity. The two countries reaffirm their commitment during the 14th meeting of the Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan Intergovernmental Council, held in Bishkek on October 30, 2026.
Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and Kyrgyz Cabinet Chairman and Head of the Presidential Administration Adylbek Kasymaliev lead the discussions, which cover trade, agriculture, water management, transport and transit, aviation, space technology, digitalisation and cultural cooperation. Both sides emphasise the importance of translating their strategic partnership into practical economic initiatives.
Also read: Germany Looks to Asia-Pacific for Stronger Trade Partnerships
Trade between the neighbouring countries records steady growth. Bilateral trade reaches approximately $2.4 billion in 2025, representing a 33% increase compared with the previous year. During January-August 2026, trade rises nearly 20% to $1.75 billion, according to Kazakhstan's Trade and Integration Ministry. The two governments identify stronger transport networks, agricultural cooperation and industrial development as key drivers for achieving their $3 billion target.
Agriculture remains an important component of bilateral trade. Mutual trade in agricultural products increases 41.5% in 2025 to more than $500 million. Under an existing roadmap, Kazakhstan plans to expand supplies of grain, oilseeds, oilseed meal, sunflower oil and other food products to Kyrgyzstan. Both countries also explore opportunities to strengthen industrial and commercial exchanges.
Cross-border infrastructure receives particular attention during the meeting. The proposed industrial, trade and logistics complex in Kazakhstan's Zhambyl Region is expected to facilitate commercial activities, improve distribution networks and support regional businesses. The two sides also review improvements to eight road border checkpoints and agree to increase electronic transport permits to 5,000.
Transport connectivity continues to improve, with scheduled flights between the countries increasing 19% to 19 per week. Cooperation in water management and environmental protection also features in the discussions, including the exchange of hydrometeorological information and improvements to shared water infrastructure.
Digitalisation and artificial intelligence emerge as additional areas for collaboration. Kazakhstan presents opportunities involving digital infrastructure, AI applications and satellite-data exchange, while both countries explore wider cooperation in the regional space sector.
Also read: The Evolving Landscape of India's Offshore Energy Sector
The meeting concludes with the signing of the final protocol of the 14th Intergovernmental Council session. Both governments reaffirm their commitment to implementing the agreed initiatives and expanding cooperation across economic, technological and humanitarian sectors.
The latest discussions underline Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan's efforts to strengthen regional trade integration, improve cross-border logistics and create new opportunities for businesses. Their $3 billion trade target provides a framework for expanding economic engagement and supporting sustainable development across Central Asia.