What does Kazakhstan import? Major imports of Kazakhstan in 2024-25

Explore the imports of Kazakhstan in 2024-25, including machinery, vehicles, food products, and electronics. Dive into Kazakhstan's import statistics, major import partners by country, and key import trends shaping its economy.

Apr 28, 2025 0 2.4k

What does Kazakhstan import? Major imports of Kazakhstan in 2024-25

Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, is a nation with a diverse economy that heavily relies on imports to meet its domestic demands. According to Kazakhstan import data, Kazakhstan imported goods worth $59.78 billion in 2024, a 2% decline from the previous year. Kazakhstan is the 54th biggest importer in the world as per the global trade data for 2024. In this article, we will explore the major imports of Kazakhstan in the upcoming years of 2024-25.

Economy of Kazakhstan

Before delving into the specifics of Kazakhstan's imports, let's take a brief overview of the country's economy. Kazakhstan is known for its rich reserves of natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals. This has been a driving force behind the country's economic & trade growth in recent years, as per the Asia trade data. Kazakhstan's economy saw vigorous growth in 2024, marked by a 4.8% increase in GDP. The World Bank predicts a temporary boost in Kazakhstan's economy in 2025, with GDP growth potentially hitting 4.7% due to increased oil production.

What Does Kazakhstan Import? Kazakhstan Import Categories

Kazakhstan imports a wide range of products to support its economy and meet the needs of its population. Some of the major imports of Kazakhstan, based on Kazakhstan customs data and Kazakhstan shipment import data for 2024-25, include:

Machinery and Equipment

Machinery and equipment are one of the top imports of Kazakhstan. The country imports a variety of machinery for industrial purposes, such as agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and manufacturing machinery.

Electronics

Electronics are another major import of Kazakhstan. The country imports a wide range of electronic products, including consumer electronics, communication devices, and computer equipment.

Vehicles

Kazakhstan also imports a significant number of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and buses. The demand for vehicles in the country has been on the rise due to the growing middle class and increasing urbanization.

Chemicals

Chemicals are essential imports for various industries in Kazakhstan, including the petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sectors. The country imports a wide range of chemicals for manufacturing and other purposes.

Food Products

Despite being a major producer of agricultural products, Kazakhstan still imports a significant amount of food products. This includes items such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and grains.

Textiles and Apparel

Kazakhstan also imports a considerable number of textiles and apparel. The demand for clothing and textiles in the country continues to grow, leading to increased imports in this category.

Major Imports of Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan Imports by HS Code

Kazakhstan's major imports, categorized by HS Code, depict a diverse range of goods entering the country. With a professional lens, it's important to note the significant imports that contribute to Kazakhstan's economy. Whether it's machinery, equipment, chemicals, or agricultural products, each HS Code sheds light on the valuable commodities shaping Kazakhstan's import landscape. The top 10 goods that Kazakhstan imports, as per Kazakhstan import statistics and Kazakhstan customs data by HS code for 2024, include:

Major Imports of Kazakhstan

Nuclear Reactors and Machinery (HS Code 84): $9.54 billion

At the top of the list are nuclear reactors and machinery, with a total import value of $9.54 billion, accounting for 15.96% of Kazakhstan's total imports. This category includes equipment and machinery used in nuclear power plants and other industrial applications.

Vehicles (HS Code 87): $6.43 billion

Vehicles, including cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles, hold the second position in Kazakhstan's import list, with a total import value of $6.43 billion, making up 10.76% of the country's overall imports. The demand for vehicles in Kazakhstan has been steadily increasing, reflecting the growth in the country's automotive industry.

Electrical Machinery and Equipment (HS Code 85): $5.38 billion

Electrical machinery and equipment rank third among Kazakhstan's top imports, with a total import value of $5.38 billion, constituting 9% of the country's total imports. This category includes a wide range of electrical appliances and devices used in various industries.

Articles of Iron or Steel (HS Code 73): $2.45 billion

Articles of iron or steel occupy the fourth spot in Kazakhstan's import list, with a total import value of $2.45 billion, accounting for 4.11% of the country's total imports. This category includes products like steel structures, pipes, and other iron or steel materials.

Pharmaceutical Products (HS Code 30): $2.34 billion

Pharmaceutical products are also significant imports for Kazakhstan, with a total import value of $2.34 billion, making up 3.92% of the country's total imports. The demand for medicines and healthcare products in Kazakhstan continues to grow, driving the import of pharmaceuticals.

Mineral Fuels and Oils (HS Code 27): $2.25 billion

Mineral fuels and oils are crucial imports for Kazakhstan, with a total import value of $2.25 billion, constituting 3.77% of the country's total imports. Kazakhstan is a major producer of oil and gas, but it still needs to import refined products to meet its domestic demand.

Plastics and Articles Thereof (HS Code 39): $2.14 billion

Plastics and articles thereof hold the seventh place in Kazakhstan's import list, with a total import value of $2.14 billion, accounting for 3.59% of the country's total imports. This category includes plastic products, packaging materials, and other plastic goods.

Aircraft, Spacecraft, and Parts Thereof (HS Code 88): $1.85 billion

Aircraft, spacecraft, and parts thereof are also significant imports for Kazakhstan, with a total import value of $1.85 billion, making up 3.1% of the country's total imports. This category includes airplanes, helicopters, and components used in the aerospace industry.

Iron and Steel (HS Code 72): $1.84 billion

Iron and steel products rank ninth in Kazakhstan's import list, with a total import value of $1.84 billion, constituting 3.09% of the country's total imports. Iron and steel are essential materials used in various industries, including construction and manufacturing.

Optical, Medical, or Surgical Instruments (HS Code 90): $1.49 billion

Last but not least, optical, medical, or surgical instruments are among the top imports of Kazakhstan, with a total import value of $1.49 billion, accounting for 2.5% of the country's total imports. This category includes medical devices, surgical equipment, and optical instruments.

Major Kazakhstan Import Partners: Kazakhstan Imports by Country

Kazakhstan's major import partners play a significant role in shaping its economy. The country's imports by country highlight key trade relationships that drive its import sector. Among Kazakhstan's top import partners are Russia, China, Germany, and the Netherlands. These nations contribute to Kazakhstan's import market by supplying various goods, fostering economic growth. The top 10 import partners of Kazakhstan as per Kazakhstan import data by country and Kazakhstan shipment data for 2024, include:

Russia: $18.25 billion (30.5%)

Russia continues to be Kazakhstan's top import partner, accounting for a significant portion of the country's total imports in 2024. The close geographical proximity between the two countries allows for smooth trade relations, with Russia supplying a wide range of goods and services to meet Kazakhstan's needs.

China: $15.15 billion (25.3%)

As one of the world's largest economies, China remains a key import partner for Kazakhstan. The strong trade ties between the two countries have led to a significant volume of imports from China, covering various sectors such as electronics, machinery, and textiles.

Germany: $2.83 billion (4.7%)

Germany's reputation for high-quality engineering and technology products makes it a valuable import partner for Kazakhstan. The country's precision machinery, automotive parts, and advanced industrial equipment are in high demand in Kazakhstan, contributing to the significant value of imports from Germany, as per the data on Germany exports to Kazakhstan.

USA: $2.27 billion (3.8%)

Despite the geographical distance, the United States has maintained its position as one of Kazakhstan's top import partners. The imports from the USA consist of a diverse range of products, including machinery, chemicals, and agricultural goods, highlighting the strong trade relationship between the two countries.

South Korea: $1.90 billion (3.2%)

South Korea's reputation for innovation and technology excellence has made it a key import partner for Kazakhstan. The imports from South Korea cover a wide range of sectors, including electronics, automotive parts, and consumer goods, catering to the diverse needs of the Kazakh market.

France: $1.86 billion (3.1%)

France's expertise in luxury goods, fashion, and aerospace technology has made it a significant import partner for Kazakhstan. The imports from France include high-end products and sophisticated equipment, reflecting the strong economic ties between the two countries.

Turkey: $1.65 billion (2.8%)

Turkey's strategic location between Europe and Asia has positioned it as a vital import partner for Kazakhstan. The imports from Turkey consist of textile products, construction materials, and food items, meeting the diverse needs of the Kazakh market and strengthening bilateral trade relations.

Uzbekistan: $1.30 billion (2.2%)

As a neighboring country, Uzbekistan plays a crucial role in supplying goods and services to Kazakhstan. The imports from Uzbekistan include agricultural products, textiles, and construction materials, enhancing the economic cooperation between the two countries.

Japan: $1.27 billion (2.1%)

Japan's reputation for high-quality electronics, automotive parts, and machinery has made it a valuable import partner for Kazakhstan. The imports from Japan cater to the evolving technological needs of Kazakhstan, contributing to the growth of bilateral trade relations.

Italy: $1.27 billion (2.1%)

Italy's expertise in fashion, design, and luxury goods has made it a significant import partner for Kazakhstan. The imports from Italy consist of high-end products, machinery, and industrial equipment, reflecting the strong economic ties between the two countries.

Kazakhstan Imports in the Last 10 Years: Historical Kazakhstan Import Data

Kazakhstan Imports

Year of Trade	Total Value of Kazakhstan’s Imports ($)
2014	$41.29 billion
2015	$30.56 billion
2016	$25.17 billion
2017	$29.30 billion
2018	$32.53 billion
2019	$38.35 billion
2020	$38.08 billion
2021	$41.41 billion
2022	$30.95 billion
2023	$61.16 billion
2024	$59.78 billion

Kazakhstan Import Trends (2024-2025)

Kazakhstan’s total imports rose by 8.5% year-on-year in early 2025.
The import market is driven by machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and food products, as per Kazakhstan trade statistics.
Increasing demand for infrastructure and technology goods due to national modernization programs (e.g., “Digital Kazakhstan 2030”).
Trade partnerships strengthened with China, Russia, Germany, and Türkiye.
Shifts towards sustainable and energy-efficient machinery imports are observed.

Top 10 Importers in Kazakhstan (2024-25)

Here is a list of the biggest importers in Kazakhstan, based on the Kazakhstan importers data and the Kazakhstan buyers list for 2024-25:

Rank	Company Name	Sector	Active Shipments (Monthly Avg.)
1	Eurasia Machinery LLP	Construction Equipment	450+ shipments
2	Astana Motors	Automotive Vehicles	400+ shipments
3	Kazpharm Ltd.	Pharmaceuticals	320+ shipments
4	Kcell JSC	Telecom Equipment	310+ shipments
5	TechnoDom Operator LLP	Electronics	280+ shipments
6	ArcelorMittal Temirtau JSC	Steel and Iron	250+ shipments
7	Magnum Cash & Carry LLP	Food and Consumer Goods	240+ shipments
8	ABdi Company LLP	Medical Equipment	210+ shipments
9	Global Foods Kazakhstan LLP	Foodstuff Importers	190+ shipments
10	Altyn Orda Company LLP	Plastics and Chemicals	170+ shipments

Shipment Trends for Kazakhstan Customs Import Data

Containerized shipments rose by 11% compared to 2023.
Multimodal transport (sea + rail) usage increased due to the Belt and Road Initiative.
Ports of Aktau, Kuryk, and railway hubs like Altynkol became crucial gateways.
Greater use of Consolidated shipments (LCL) for small to medium businesses.
Increase in direct air shipments for pharmaceuticals and medical devices (up by 9.3%).

Import Pricing Overview (Q1 2025)

Machinery and vehicle prices rose by 5%-7% due to global inflation and supply chain stress.
Pharmaceutical import prices stabilized (+2%), owing to competition among Indian and European suppliers.
Food imports (especially dairy and cereals) witnessed price volatility with a 4%-6% increase, affected by global food security concerns.
Iron & steel prices saw a 3% drop due to regional overproduction.

Market Trends for Kazakhstan Imports

Surge in green tech imports: solar panels, EV components, battery storage equipment.
Digitization of logistics: Blockchain and AI usage in customs clearance gaining traction.
Import substitution efforts: Local industries growing in chemicals and food processing, but still highly dependent on imports.
Strong pharmaceutical demand: Aging population and healthcare reforms boost pharma imports.

Key Takeaways

Machinery, vehicles, and pharmaceuticals dominate Kazakhstan’s import profile.
China and Russia are leading suppliers.
There is a strong push for technology upgrades and healthcare imports.
Importers should monitor pricing trends carefully, particularly in the vehicles and food sectors.
Sustainability, efficiency, and digitization are shaping future import patterns.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Kazakhstan relies heavily on imports to meet its domestic demands, there are both challenges and opportunities associated with this dependency. On one hand, a heavy reliance on imports can make the country vulnerable to external shocks, such as fluctuations in global commodity prices or supply chain disruptions.

On the other hand, importing goods from other countries presents an opportunity for Kazakhstan to access a wider range of products and technologies that may not be available domestically. This can help stimulate innovation and economic growth in the country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kazakhstan imports a diverse range of products to support its economy and meet the needs of its population. In the upcoming years of 2024-25, the country is expected to continue importing machinery and equipment, electronics, vehicles, chemicals, food products, and textiles and apparel. While there are challenges associated with a heavy reliance on imports, there are also opportunities for Kazakhstan to benefit from accessing a wider range of products and technologies.

Visit TradeImeX for more insightful market trends, such as our interactive blog report on Kazakhstan imports 2024-25. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in and get a customized quote on Kazakhstan import-export data and top import companies in Kazakhstan.