The year 2025 marked a major shift for Kazakhstan’s media sector. Beyond routine updates, it became a period of systemic reform, institutional development, and a renewed focus on professional standards. Taken together, these changes are reshaping how media operates in the country — legally, economically, and creatively, DKNews.kz reports.
A growing and diversifying media landscape
As of 2025, Kazakhstan has 5,029 registered media outlets, including 306 foreign media organizations. Over the course of the year alone, 515 new media outlets were registered, highlighting sustained interest in the sector despite increasing competition and the rapid transformation of audience habits.
Industry observers note that much of this growth comes from digital and hybrid formats. Online media platforms, niche outlets, and multimedia projects are increasingly shaping the information space, reflecting broader global trends.
Support for print media at a critical moment
One of the most notable policy decisions in 2025 was direct support for domestic print publications. Under a law signed by the Head of State on July 18, 2025, the new Tax Code introduced a reduced VAT rate of 10 percent for domestically produced print publications.
For the print media industry, this move carries particular significance. Rising production costs and shrinking advertising revenues have placed pressure on newspapers and magazines, especially in the regions. The tax relief is widely seen as a measure aimed at preserving editorial diversity and giving print media additional room to adapt to digital realities.
New rules for online platforms and mass media
Another key development was the preparation of legislative amendments addressing the digital media environment. In 2025, the Ministry drafted two major bills:
- Amendments to legislation on online platforms and mass media
- Amendments to the Administrative Offences Code related to online platforms and mass media
These initiatives aim to update the legal framework in line with the realities of digital distribution, clarify responsibilities, and introduce clearer rules for participants in the online information space. The broader goal is to balance freedom of expression, public interest, and accountability in an increasingly complex media ecosystem.
Expanding international cooperation
Kazakhstan’s media industry also strengthened its international presence in 2025 through major co-production projects. Cooperation with Turkey resulted in the completion of the 100-episode television series “Qaita Oralğan Ümit.” With China, Kazakhstan produced its first joint television series, “İlede Kütemin…”. Meanwhile, collaboration with the Russian Federation led to the creation of the eight-episode drama series “Alligator.”
These projects go beyond entertainment. They are part of a broader effort to export Kazakhstani content, build creative partnerships, and position the country as an active participant in regional and international media markets.
A sector entering a new phase
Taken together, the developments of 2025 suggest that Kazakhstan’s media industry is entering a new phase. Regulatory reform, economic support measures, and international cooperation are reshaping the sector’s foundations.
Media in Kazakhstan is increasingly moving beyond its traditional role as a source of information to become a key platform for public dialogue, cultural exchange, and creative industry growth. How successfully the sector adapts to these changes will define its trajectory in the years ahead.
