Customs and Logistics in Kazakhstan: Key Trends and Challenges as of August 2025
2026-02-12 06:43
Since the beginning of 2025, Kazakhstan has been actively strengthening its role as a key transit hub between China, EAEU countries, and Europe. Amid geopolitical shifts and sanctions policies, alternative routes through Kazakhstan — including the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) — have gained priority.
Key Challenges:
Overload of railway infrastructure
Shortage of containers and rolling stock
Rising transportation costs
Government Response:
Continued digitalization of logistics and implementation of e-TTN (electronic waybill)
Expansion of logistics hubs in Almaty, Aktobe, and West Kazakhstan regions
Customs Changes and Current Regulations
In 2025, import controls have tightened, particularly due to:
Parallel imports
Stricter product labeling requirements
Anti-smuggling measures at southern borders (China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan)
Major Updates:
Introduction of a new Early Alert System for importers
Increased inspections for goods moving through green and blue corridors
Implementation of automated declaration risk assessment using Big Data analytics
Domestic Logistics Challenges for Businesses
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are facing several issues:
Border delays (especially at Khorgos and Saryagash checkpoints)
Complications in obtaining certificates of origin and veterinary/phytosanitary documents
Logistics cost increases of 20–30% over the past six months
What Helps Businesses:
Outsourcing logistics and customs clearance
Transitioning to multi-warehouse models and consolidation hubs
Cooperation with logistics marketplaces
Labeling and Traceability
The product labeling system under the National Product Catalogue (Kazakhstan’s equivalent of Russia’s “Honest Sign” system) continues to expand.
Currently mandatory labeling:
Alcohol
Tobacco products
Footwear
Dietary supplements
Textiles
Mandatory labeling for electronics and children’s goods is planned for 2026.
International Trends and Their Impact on Kazakhstan
China is increasing railway capacity, including modernization of the Alatau–Khorgos hub
The European Union is tightening controls on product origin and carbon footprint reporting
Russia is strengthening internal trade barriers within the EAEU (e.g., excise goods regulations)
Business Recommendations for August 2025
Review logistics routes considering potential delays and congestion risks
Invest in digitalization: cargo tracking, electronic document management, integration with IS SFEU and ESF systems
Work with reliable customs brokers and 3PL providers
Monitor new regulations, particularly those related to labeling, sanitary control, and export compliance