In Kazakhstan, oversight of biolaboratories and the handling of biological materials has recently become more structured and transparent. Following an audit by the Supreme Audit Chamber (SAP), the country’s healthcare authorities have strengthened regulatory mechanisms to ensure safety, accountability, and proper monitoring in this sensitive field, DKNews.kz reports.
The changes affect biomedical and preclinical research, as well as the operation of biobanks and laboratories working with biological samples.
Why oversight became a priority
In 2024, the Supreme Audit Chamber conducted an efficiency audit of the Ministry of Healthcare and its subordinate organizations. The review covered a wide range of issues, including access to medicines and medical devices, the use of public assets, and regulatory gaps in medical research.
The audit identified areas where rules were fragmented or insufficiently clear, particularly in relation to biological materials and research activities. As a result, the Ministry of Healthcare was instructed to update several key regulatory documents.
Who is responsible for oversight
The primary authority responsible for regulating biolaboratories in Kazakhstan is the Ministry of Healthcare. It sets national standards, approves rules for biomedical and preclinical research, and oversees the operation of biobanks.
Other state bodies are involved at different stages, including agencies responsible for inspections, licensing, and compliance monitoring. This multi-level approach is intended to reduce risks and ensure that biological materials are used strictly for authorized scientific and medical purposes.
How biolaboratories are now monitored
Following the audit, the Ministry of Healthcare introduced several important changes.
First, new mechanisms for registration, accounting, and monitoring of biomedical research were added. These rules apply to all types of studies - whether initiated by researchers themselves, funded by private resources, or supported by international organizations.
Second, regulations governing biobanks were updated to include a dedicated section on the storage and management of biological materials. This establishes uniform standards for how samples must be stored, tracked, and protected.
Third, preclinical research is now subject to clearer accounting procedures. This allows regulators to see where and how such studies are conducted and reduces the risk of unregulated activity.
What this means in practice
In practical terms, biolaboratories must now operate under clearer and more detailed rules. Research projects must be registered, biological samples must be properly documented, and compliance with storage and safety standards is subject to oversight.
These measures are designed to improve transparency, prevent misuse of biological materials, and strengthen public trust in medical research.
Why this matters for society
Biolaboratories play a critical role in healthcare, science, and innovation. At the same time, they operate in a field that directly affects public health and biosecurity.
By tightening oversight after the audit, Kazakhstan aims to balance scientific development with safety and accountability. The updated framework is intended to reduce regulatory gaps, align national practices with international standards, and ensure that biological research serves public interests.
What comes next
The Ministry of Healthcare has stated that monitoring compliance with the new rules will be an ongoing process. Further adjustments may follow as the system is tested in practice.
For now, the changes mark a step toward a more transparent and controlled environment for biomedical research and biolaboratory activity in Kazakhstan.
