Trade turnover between Kazakhstan and member countries of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program increased by 14.4% in 2025, reaching $8.8 billion, according to the Kazakh government's press service.

Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, Serik Zhumangarin, announced the figures at the Tianshan Forum in Almaty, The Caspian Post reports, citing Qazinform.

Outlining the key priorities within the CAREC framework, Zhumangarin highlighted the expansion of bilateral trade, the development of transport and logistics links, and the attraction of high-quality investments.

"Our shared objective is not only to increase trade volumes, but also to consistently eliminate barriers, simplify trade procedures, advance e-commerce, and expand access for businesses to neighboring markets," Zhumangarin said.

He also identified the development of transport infrastructure as another priority. Kazakhstan is working to increase the capacity of transit corridors, modernize its railway and road infrastructure, and develop multimodal logistics.

To accelerate cross-border transportation, it is also necessary to harmonize transport systems, digitize border procedures, and reduce cargo transit times, he noted.

Kazakhstan's foreign direct investment in CAREC member countries has exceeded $4 billion. Meanwhile, more than 28,000 companies from CAREC countries and over 2,500 joint ventures are registered in Kazakhstan.

According to Zhumangarin, alongside increasing overall investment volumes, it is important to direct investments toward establishing new production facilities, introducing advanced technologies, improving labour productivity, and manufacturing goods with high added value.

He added that Kazakhstan aims to expand cooperation with international financial institutions in such areas as transport, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and digital infrastructure.

Other important issues on the regional agenda include the digitalization of trade and logistics, climate change adaptation, and sustainable water management.

The second Tianshan Forum, themed "Strengthening Resilient Connectivity and Quality Investment in Central Asia," is being held in Almaty on November 2-3.

The event is co-organized by the CAREC Institute and Kazakhstan's Ministry of National Economy, with the Asian Development Bank participating as a strategic partner.

The forum has brought together around 400 participants, including government delegations from CAREC member countries, representatives of international financial institutions and development organizations, business representatives, and industry experts.