Kazakhstan Unveils New Steps to Keep Food Prices Stable

The Kazakh Government has introduced fresh measures to keep food prices stable amid rising seasonal demand.

At a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin, officials reviewed ongoing efforts to curb inflation, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

For the third week in a row this November, prices for socially important food items showed zero growth - a key indicator ahead of December, a month known for increased consumer activity.

Government Prepares New Steps to Hold Down Prices

Expanding the essentials list:

The Ministry of Trade and Integration has proposed temporarily expanding the list of socially important food products. The goal is to include items with high price volatility. The draft is currently under review, with upcoming consultations involving business groups and the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs.

Regional food fairs:

Agricultural fairs remain active nationwide, with more than 5,000 held since the start of the year. They will continue every weekend. In December, the popular Bereke Fest campaign will return alongside major retail chains. Local akimats will also launch pre-New Year fairs to ensure a wide selection of affordable goods.

Working with food importers:

With demand for imported products rising during the holiday season, the Trade Committee has compiled a list of key importers and suppliers. Meetings with these companies will take place soon to secure stable pricing for high-demand items in December.

Concluding the meeting, Zhumangarin instructed the Trade Ministry and regional administrations to maintain strict price monitoring and react swiftly to any market fluctuations.