A seminar-meeting was held in Astana on the topic “Localization of Production within the Framework of the National Project ‘Modernization of the Energy and Utilities Sectors’ (MEX).” The event brought together representatives of government agencies, natural monopolies, industry organizations, and Kazakhstani manufacturers of industrial products.

Olzhas Saparbekov, Vice Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, delivered a welcoming address to the participants. In his speech, he emphasized that the government views the MEX National Project not only as an infrastructure program but also as a vital tool for developing domestic manufacturing and establishing a sustainable industrial base for the country’s energy and utilities sectors.

“As part of the implementation of the MEX National Project, the state has established the necessary mechanisms to support domestic manufacturers. We expect Kazakhstani businesses to actively participate in modernization projects, thereby increasing the level of localization, product quality, and technological expertise,” – noted the Deputy Minister.

He also emphasized that one of the key priorities of the National Project is the development of domestic value and support for Kazakhstani manufacturers. According to Olzhas Saparbekov, Kazakhstan has already built significant industrial capacity in the fields of mechanical engineering, metalworking, construction materials production, and the chemical and oil and gas chemical industries, capable of competing with foreign counterparts in terms of product quality.

At the same time, according to the vice minister, the projected demand under the MEX National Project amounts to more than 2,700 product lines worth approximately 2.2 trillion tenge.

During the seminar, it was noted that the regulatory and institutional framework of the National MEX Project is structured with a priority on supporting domestic manufacturers. In particular, it provides for procurement mechanisms, off-take contracts, and digital project support tools aimed at expanding the participation of Kazakhstani enterprises in the implementation of MEX initiatives.

During the seminar, participants discussed issues related to the inclusion of domestic products in design and cost estimates, standardization, the development of industrial cooperation, tariff setting, as well as mechanisms for expanding the participation of Kazakhstani manufacturers in MEX projects.

The event program included several thematic discussion sessions dedicated to issues of localizing new production facilities, requirements for manufacturers, the implementation of standards, and the development of domestic cooperation. Participants paid special attention to issues related to creating a map of production shortages, the adoption of modern technologies, and the improvement of the laboratory quality control system.

In addition to the business program, the seminar venue featured an exhibition area showcasing products from Kazakhstani manufacturers and a B2B platform for direct negotiations, consultations, and discussions regarding applications for MEKS projects.

The event included the signing of agreements on joint activities and cooperation among market participants.

The organizers noted that holding such industry events contributes to the development of constructive dialogue between the government, business, and industry organizations, as well as to increasing the level of localization and industrial cooperation in Kazakhstan.

Source: Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan