Kazakhstan accounts for more than half of Central Asia's economy. By the end of 2025, the country's nominal GDP reached $306 billion, representing 53.7% of the region's total economic output, according to the Chinese English-language magazine All China Review, as reported by infohub.kz.
The study's authors highlight Kazakhstan as the undisputed economic leader in the region. For comparison, Uzbekistan's GDP stood at $147.1 billion, Turkmenistan at $77.4 billion, Kyrgyzstan at $21.6 billion, and Tajikistan at $17.5 billion.
According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Kazakhstan has attracted $151.3 billion in cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI), accounting for 68.6% of all FDI in Central Asia. Analysts attribute this to macroeconomic stability, developed infrastructure, and consistent improvements in the investment climate.
Another advantage is the country's robust financial system. Banking sector assets reached $140 billion by early 2026, with deposits totaling $96.4 billion — the highest in the region.
The study also underscores Kazakhstan's growing role in cooperation with China. Bilateral trade hit a record $48 billion in 2025. Over 85% of overland cargo between China and Europe passes through Kazakhstan, making it a key transit hub in Eurasia.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects Kazakhstan's economy to grow to $360.4 billion in 2026. The researchers attribute the country's leadership not only to economic size but also to diversification, ongoing reforms, and the ability to attract long-term investments.
The All China Review article was published after President Qasym-Jomart Toqaev's visit to Shanghai. Ahead of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference, the head of state met with leaders of China's tech sector and invited Chinese AI giants to build a Data Center Valley in Ekibastuz.