Kazakhstan has made significant progress in the development and adoption of artificial intelligence. Through political commitment, legislative reform, targeted infrastructure investments, and broad sectoral integration, the country is positioning itself as a leader in digital transformation within Central Asia.
AI as a National Priority: Presidential State of the Nation Address
Artificial intelligence became a central element of national development policy following the State of the Nation Address delivered by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in September 2025. The address, focused on Kazakhstan in the era of artificial intelligence, emphasized the need to transform state governance, modernize the economy, and strengthen digital competitiveness.
The President highlighted several priorities: development of a unified Digital Code, creation of a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, expansion of national digital platforms, and integration of AI across public administration, industry, and education. This vision provided the political mandate for the wide-ranging initiatives that followed.
Legal Framework: Adoption of Central Asia’s First AI Law
In 2025 Kazakhstan adopted the first dedicated law on artificial intelligence in Central Asia. This legislation introduced clear standards of responsibility for developers, operators, and users of AI systems. It requires transparency, algorithmic safety, human oversight, and mandatory labeling of AI-generated content. The law also restricts high-risk applications that may infringe upon privacy or manipulate human behavior.
By formalizing the principles of safe and ethical AI usage, Kazakhstan created a regulatory environment that supports innovation while protecting public interests.
Digital Infrastructure: Platforms, Networks, and Connectivity
Progress in digital infrastructure has been central to Kazakhstan’s AI development. The government expanded the national AI network, launched a supercomputing platform, and introduced a national AI platform designed to host a growing number of AI agents that support public services. These systems allow automated processing of applications, optimization of workflows, and more accessible digital interaction for citizens.
Improvements in mobile internet performance and overall connectivity have strengthened the technological foundation, enabling high-speed data exchange across regions and supporting both private and public sector AI projects.
Transformation of Public Services
The government is actively integrating AI into administrative processes. Public platforms now use AI-based tools to categorize citizen requests, analyze documents, and streamline interactions. The introduction of the Academy of IT Architects aims to enhance the design and implementation of digital government services, creating a more efficient and people-centered system.
AI is also supporting social policy. The Digital Family Map aggregates information from numerous data sources to help assess the living conditions of millions of families. This allows authorities to direct assistance where it is most needed and to plan social programs based on data rather than assumptions.
Industrial and Economic Modernization
The use of AI in industry has intensified, with applications in manufacturing, energy, logistics, agriculture, and construction. AI-driven satellite monitoring assists in evaluating agricultural productivity and land management. Digital tools help optimize resource usage in energy and water sectors. Manufacturing enterprises rely on predictive analytics to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Kazakhstan has also begun exporting digital and AI solutions, indicating the formation of a competitive technology sector.
Human Capital and Research Development
Recognizing the need for trained specialists, Kazakhstan has launched national educational programs aimed at building AI competencies across society. Programs such as AI-Sana, AI-Qyzmet, and AI-People are designed to train hundreds of thousands of citizens, from school students to civil servants and industry professionals.
Research institutions play an active role. Domestic developers have created local large language models and AI solutions adapted to the Kazakh language and regional needs. These initiatives strengthen technological independence and support the development of a domestic AI ecosystem.
International and Regional Cooperation
Kazakhstan actively promotes cooperation in digital transformation within the region. Initiatives within the Organization of Turkic States focus on digital connectivity, cybersecurity, and shared technical standards. Kazakhstan’s legislative and technological achievements make it a natural reference point for neighboring countries seeking guidance on AI regulation and deployment.
Future Challenges and Strategic Outlook
Despite substantial progress, several challenges remain. These include ensuring the equitable distribution of digital benefits across regions, maintaining strong data protection standards, expanding digital literacy, and addressing the shortage of highly qualified AI specialists. Long-term success will depend on the quality of implementation and the country’s ability to balance innovation with ethical and inclusive governance.
Conclusion
Kazakhstan has made significant and rapid progress in artificial intelligence. The strategic direction set by the President in the 2025 State of the Nation Address, combined with the adoption of a pioneering AI law, expansion of digital infrastructure, integration of AI into public administration, and investment in human capital, has created a solid foundation for long-term digital transformation. If sustained, these initiatives can position Kazakhstan as a regional center of innovation and a strong competitor in the global digital economy.
By Dr. Asadullah Karimov – Director General for South Africa and Kazakhstan Trading and Cultural Association, Pretoria, South Africa