The Karaganda Region is actively strengthening its position in the machine-building industry and is becoming one of the country’s key industrial production centers. This year, the region produced 1,400 buses and special-purpose vehicles and began construction of a new plant for the production of HOWO brand commercial vehicles in the Saran industrial zone, according to a Kazinform correspondent.
Once it reaches full capacity, the plant will produce up to 10,000 units of equipment per year and create about 1,000 new jobs.
Machinery Manufacturing as an Economic Driver
Deputy Governor of the region Alibek Aldeney emphasized that the development of mechanical engineering is becoming a key element in the diversification of the region’s economy.
“In addition to traditional metallurgy, we are developing mechanical engineering, the production of rubber and plastic products, and other industries. This year alone, 1,400 buses and special-purpose vehicles, 131,000 units of household appliances, and 372,000 automobile tires were produced. All of this contributes to strengthening the region’s industrial potential,” he noted at a briefing at the Regional Communications Service.
According to Alibek Moldakarimov, Deputy Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Industry, a significant portion of the production remains in the domestic market, ensuring the renewal of the bus fleet and meeting the demand for freight vehicles.
“The main goal is to renew the bus fleet in all regions of the country. Freight vehicles are in high demand domestically,” he emphasized.
Industrial Zones: Growth in Investment and New Jobs
Alibek Aldeney highlighted the successful example of the Saran Industrial Zone, where 12 participants have registered, investing 472 billion tenge. This will create more than 4,600 new jobs. The zone features well-developed transport logistics, ready-to-use industrial infrastructure, and low energy tariffs.
The region also hosts the Saryarka Free Economic Zone, where 24 participants are registered. Of these, 11 projects have already been commissioned, and 13 are currently under development.
In addition, three small industrial zones with a total area of 50,000 square meters are under construction in the Karaganda region to accommodate small and medium-sized businesses, which will expand opportunities for entrepreneurs and create additional jobs.
As a reminder, with the participation of First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar, founding agreements were signed regarding Sinotruk’s acquisition by the Kazakhstani company Saran Machinery.