According to statistics, the share of mechanical engineering in Kazakhstan’s total manufacturing output currently stands at approximately 15–18%, and in the GDP structure at about 5–7%. In the face of global challenges, it is precisely this sector that typically becomes a strategic resource capable of ensuring the stability and competitiveness of the national economy. But what are its prospects? We asked Artur Miskaryan, Director of the Automotive Market Monitoring Agency, to answer this and some other questions.
– Artur Eduardovich, which specific areas are currently the highest priority for the development of the machine-building industry in Kazakhstan?
– The machine-building industry in Kazakhstan covers several areas, including the production of passenger cars, trucks, buses, trailers, and agricultural machinery. In addition, there are enterprises manufacturing equipment for the mining and metallurgical complex, as well as the oil and gas and railway sectors.
At this stage, the production of automotive components—such as tires and rims, multimedia systems, seats, batteries, and other items in demand for the manufacture of consumer electronics—should be prioritized.
In addition, training personnel at educational institutions in Almaty, Kostanay, Semey, and other cities is undoubtedly a priority. The government is taking appropriate steps in this direction, and the business sector, in addition to developing the material and technical infrastructure of educational institutions, organizing overseas internships, and providing grants, has recently begun to address housing needs for young professionals.
Nevertheless, as the industry develops, the issue of workforce training remains critical; the sector is facing a shortage of specialists, so efforts must be made to increase the appeal of blue-collar professions.
– What can you say about the factors currently influencing the state of the machine-building sector in Kazakhstan? What are the forecasts for the coming years?
– The main factor is the growing demand for equipment manufactured in Kazakhstan, both in the domestic market and abroad. On the one hand, this is driven by sustained effective demand, and on the other, by the need to modernize and expand the fleet of equipment used across various sectors of the economy.
In addition, it is worth noting that the government and the industry regulator have taken a clear stance on the need to develop the machine-building industry. For businesses, this is a key factor in attracting investment.
– What measures are being taken to develop local production chains and introduce digital technologies in the machine-building industry?
– There are several key projects in various regions. Among them, it is worth noting the active implementation of new technological processes and the expansion of the range of equipment produced in the Abai, Akmola, Karaganda, and North Kazakhstan regions. Automotive clusters are being built in Kostanay and Almaty. New enterprises are being prepared for launch—a multi-brand plant for the production of vehicles from three Chinese brands and a Kia automobile plant, in the construction of which a Korean conglomerate is investing.
Undoubtedly, in terms of the technological sophistication of the equipment used, robotization, and the digitalization of work processes, these are significant and complex projects.
– How do you assess the effectiveness of state support for the machine-building sector, and what needs to be done to ensure its competitiveness in the global market?
– An assessment can be made based on key metrics: stable growth in production volumes, an increase in the number of enterprises and jobs, as well as the expansion of the model range of equipment produced, including welding and painting of vehicle bodies. A stamping plant in Sarani will also begin operations shortly.
To enter foreign markets, it is necessary to implement and develop export promotion tools. This should be done in a manner similar to how it works in other countries engaged in the development of the machine-building industry.
Source: kazpravda.kz