**Euronews Debates: Unlocking Kazakhstan’s Potential as a Regional Trade Hub**
*Published on 17/09/2026 - 15:00 GMT+2*
At the Astana Finance Days 2026, a significant financial forum in Central Asia, discussions centered around Kazakhstan’s ambition to evolve from a traditional transit country into a dynamic regional hub for production, trade, and investment. The event featured a panel moderated by Euronews, which brought together various experts to explore how Kazakhstan can leverage its strategic location at the heart of Eurasia.
Nurzhan Marabayev, an infrastructure investor, emphasized that the development of efficient, transparent, and competitive logistics is crucial for unlocking new projects across Central Asia. He pointed out that while Kazakhstan benefits from relatively low labor, resource, and construction costs, the high expenses associated with logistics remain a significant hurdle for the landlocked nation.
Meruyert Zholdybayeva, the director of an airport, highlighted the potential of multimodal transport systems. She cited a specific route from Shenzhen, China, to Europe that enables goods to be delivered in just seven days. Zholdybayeva expressed optimism that Aktau, a port city on the Caspian Sea, could evolve into a major hub by integrating rail, sea, and air transportation links.
The manufacturing sector in Kazakhstan is also showing signs of robust growth. Alima Issembayeva reported that production in the country surged from 2.3 trillion tenge in 2021 to nearly 4 trillion tenge by 2025. Furthermore, she noted that exports more than doubled between 2021 and 2024, indicating a positive trend in Kazakhstan's economic landscape.
Trade expert Ilya Urazakov underscored Kazakhstan's record of foreign direct investment (FDI) and its abundant natural resources as significant advantages in its quest to become a regional trade hub. Meanwhile, Professor Tom Vinaimont highlighted the importance of currency hedging and the need for predictable financing to support these ambitious initiatives.
As Kazakhstan seeks to redefine its economic role, the discussions at Astana Finance Days 2026 reflect a broader vision for the country's future. By addressing logistical challenges and capitalizing on its strategic assets, Kazakhstan aims to position itself as a key player in regional trade and investment.