In 2026, one of Kazakhstan’s most prominent digital platforms will enter a new phase. The international Digital Almaty forum will transform into Digital Qazaqstan - a national platform focused on practical digital and AI-driven transformation of the economy, DKNews.kz reports.
This is not merely a rebranding. It represents a strategic shift toward systemic digital modernization, with a strong emphasis on regional development and real-sector integration.
Industry 5.0: The Power of Human–Technology Synergy
The central theme of Digital Qazaqstan 2026 will be Industry 5.0. Unlike Industry 4.0, which centered on automation, Industry 5.0 highlights the harmonious collaboration between humans and advanced technologies.
Artificial intelligence, data analytics, and robotics are positioned not as replacements for people, but as tools to enhance human potential. The goal is to increase productivity, promote sustainable development, and create more resilient economic systems.
The forum will showcase practical AI implementation scenarios across industry, public administration, and regional development projects.
“A New Level of the Digital Ecosystem”
According to Dania Akhmetova, CEO of Digital Bridge:
“Digital Qazaqstan is the logical continuation and strengthening of the digital ecosystem that has been systematically forming in the country in recent years. We are moving from isolated case studies to large-scale, systemic digital transformation. In this process, regions become full-fledged drivers of economic and technological development. The forum creates a national platform where technologies and artificial intelligence are deeply integrated into the economy and regional processes, ensuring long-term and sustainable results for the country.”
Her statement reflects the broader ambition behind the initiative - moving from discussions to implementation.
Why Shymkent
Digital Qazaqstan 2026 will take place on March 27, 2026, in Shymkent. The choice of location is strategic.
Shymkent is one of Kazakhstan’s fastest-growing industrial and economic hubs. Hosting the forum there signals a strong focus on digitalizing the real sector, embedding AI in manufacturing, and strengthening interregional technological cooperation.
This also underscores the government’s intent to extend digital transformation beyond major metropolitan centers.
What to Expect
The program will cover key areas of digital and industrial development and will include:
- A plenary session with government representatives and international experts
- Industry-focused panel discussions and roundtables
- An exhibition of IT companies and startups
- Technology competitions, contests, and hackathons
The emphasis will be on applied solutions and real implementation cases.
Digital Qazaqstan Awards
A dedicated highlight of the forum will be the Digital Qazaqstan Awards - a national recognition platform for outstanding digital transformation initiatives.
In 2026, awards will be presented in the following categories:
- AI implementation in industry
- Development of digital public services
- Regional digital transformation
- Socially impactful technology projects
- Promising AI startups
The awards aim to showcase the country’s most successful and scalable digital practices.
Organizers and Accreditation
The forum is organized by the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Shymkent, and the Astana Hub Autonomous Cluster Fund. The event will be funded through sponsorship.
Media accreditation is currently open. Applications will be accepted until March 9, 2026.
Digital Qazaqstan 2026 marks a shift from isolated digital projects to systemic economic transformation. If the declared objectives translate into action, Shymkent could become a key driver of Kazakhstan’s new industrial era.
