As part of implementing the strategic initiatives outlined by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his “Fair Kazakhstan: Law and Order, Economic Growth, Public Optimism” Address, and in line with the instructions of Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Finance is carrying out a large-scale program to modernize border customs infrastructure, DKNews.kz reports.
Chairman inspects border operations in person
On August 8, 2025, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee Zhandos Duisebayev, accompanied by a monitoring group, visited the Kalzhat and Nur Zholy border crossing points on the Kazakhstan–China border. The purpose of the trip was to review operations, assess the quality of public services, and identify factors affecting the efficiency of business processes. Special attention was given to digitalization and the expansion of technical capabilities.
The Nur Zholy crossing in Zhetisu Region is one of the largest in the country, ensuring steady trade between Kazakhstan and China. The Kalzhat post in Almaty Region plays a key role in processing export–import operations and transit, and is a central element of the region’s transport and logistics network.
From Mangystau to Turkey, Pakistan, and beyond
On August 6, 2025, as part of the Prime Minister's assignment, Ernar Erzhanov, Head of the Ministry of Finance’s Office, together with the SRC leadership, visited the Tazhen and Temir Baba border crossing points in Mangystau Region.
- Temir Baba - the only road crossing on the Turkmenistan border, providing access to Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, the UAE, and other countries. It handles shipments of goods and food from Europe, and in the opposite direction - Turkish consumer goods, equipment for the oil and gas industry, as well as fruit and vegetables from Turkmenistan and Pakistan.
- Tazhen - a major transit hub on the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border, linking Central Asia with Russia and Europe. Around 90% of its traffic consists of transit cargo, as well as labor migrants traveling from Uzbekistan to Russia.
Major construction and technical upgrades are underway at these sites: traffic lanes are being expanded, modern inspection complexes, weighing stations, and digital control systems are being installed. Despite the reconstruction, both posts continue to operate as normal.
Speed and discipline as top priorities
Following the inspections, heads of customs posts were given specific instructions to accelerate construction and improve service quality. Contractors have been ordered to increase the number of workers and machinery on site.
Several customs post managers have been subjected to disciplinary action for weakened oversight in their divisions. In addition, the Ministry has approved a new dress code for customs officers.
Nine crossing points upgraded
The modernization program covers nine border crossing points with China, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
Four modernized facilities are already in operation:
- Kalzhat and Alakol - on the China border
- Kaplanbek and Atameken - on the Uzbekistan border
By the end of the year, five more are scheduled to launch:
- Bakhty and Maikapchagai (China)
- Kazygurt and Tazhen (Uzbekistan)
- Temir Baba (Turkmenistan)
Results already visible
Even at this early stage, the modernization has significantly increased throughput, reduced administrative barriers, and improved conditions for foreign trade participants.
New facilities are being equipped with automated scanning systems, weight control, and pre-declaration tools, ensuring faster and more transparent border crossings.
Kazakhstan’s border modernization is not just about infrastructure - it’s a strategic step to strengthen economic security, improve the business environment, and elevate the country’s role in international trade and logistics.
