Trade, investment, tourism and logistics are becoming the new pillars of a rapidly expanding partnership
While global businesses search for new markets and reliable trade routes, Kazakhstan and Spain are finding more reasons to work together, DKNews.kz reports.
The first Kazakhstan-Spain Forum, held in Astana, signaled a new stage in bilateral relations, bringing together government officials, experts and business representatives to discuss everything from logistics and renewable energy to tourism and digital innovation.
For both countries, the message was clear: there is still significant untapped potential.
Why this forum matters
Kazakhstan has increasingly positioned itself as a strategic hub between Europe and Asia.
Spain, meanwhile, is one of Europe's largest economies, with internationally recognized expertise in infrastructure, transportation, renewable energy, tourism and industrial modernization.
The combination creates opportunities that extend far beyond traditional trade.
Speaking at the forum, Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister Arman Issetov highlighted the growing importance of the partnership.
"Kazakhstan acts as a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia, and Spain brings internationally recognized experience in infrastructure, innovation, sustainable development, tourism, and industrial modernization."
The statement reflects a broader trend: both countries are looking for practical ways to strengthen economic cooperation amid changing global supply chains and increasing connectivity between Europe and Central Asia.
Spanish companies are already investing in Kazakhstan
Spanish business is not new to Kazakhstan.
Several major Spanish companies have already established operations in the country, including Airbus, Maxam, Talgo, Técnicas Reunidas, Glovo, Roca and Inditex.
Their presence demonstrates growing confidence in Kazakhstan's market and long-term economic prospects.
Nearly $2 billion in trade
Economic ties between the two countries have already reached substantial levels.
According to figures presented during the forum:
- Trade turnover reached $1.93 billion last year;
- Kazakhstan attracted approximately $345 million in Spanish direct investment between 2005 and 2025;
- 35 joint ventures currently operate across Kazakhstan.
These numbers show that bilateral cooperation is no longer limited to diplomacy — it is increasingly driven by business and investment.
New sectors take center stage
Participants identified several industries that could shape the next phase of cooperation:
- Transport and logistics;
- Renewable energy;
- Digital technologies;
- Water resource management;
- Advanced manufacturing;
- Agribusiness.
As Kazakhstan continues developing major transit corridors connecting Asia and Europe, logistics and infrastructure projects are expected to become one of the most promising areas for future partnerships.
Tourism and sports enter the spotlight
The forum was not only about economics.
Experts also discussed tourism, sports and education as sectors capable of bringing people from both countries closer together.
Representatives from Kazakh Tourism and the Kazakhstan Football Federation joined discussions on best practices, industry challenges and opportunities for future collaboration.
With international travel recovering and interest in Central Asia growing, tourism is increasingly viewed as an area where both countries can benefit.
Looking ahead
The forum concluded with an agreement to maintain active dialogue and continue developing new initiatives.
For Kazakhstan, strengthening ties with Spain is part of a broader effort to attract investment, diversify the economy and deepen cooperation with European partners.
For Spain, Kazakhstan offers access to one of the fastest-growing regions connecting Europe and Asia.
The first Kazakhstan-Spain Forum may have lasted only a day, but its impact could be felt for years as both countries seek to transform political dialogue into concrete projects, investments and long-term economic growth.
