Kazakhstan and Norway Discuss the Development of Trade and Economic Cooperation during the Business Community Meeting

The Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan took part in a business community meeting held on January 27, 2026, in Oslo at the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO) venue, with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of Norway. The event brought together representatives of the business communities of Kazakhstan and Norway, business associations, and the diplomatic corps, and served as a platform for discussing the current state and prospects of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, it was noted that bilateral economic ties are showing a steady positive trend. Kazakhstan exports wheat, oats, construction and carpentry products, as well as geodetic and topographic instruments to Norway. Imports from Norway to Kazakhstan are mainly represented by fish products, titanium ores and concentrates, as well as chemical mixtures. According to the results for January–November 2025, trade turnover between the two countries increased by 32% to approximately USD 157 million, confirming stable growth and the expansion of mutual trade directions.

Discussing the institutional foundations of cooperation, participants emphasized the importance of practical steps already implemented within the framework of bilateral dialogue. In particular, the results of the first meeting of the Kazakhstan–Norway Business Council, held in April 2025 in Oslo, as well as the visit of the Norwegian delegation headed by EAST CCI of Norway to Astana in May 2025, were highlighted. These events became an important starting point for discussing promising initiatives in priority sectors of sustainable development and laid the groundwork for further expansion of business contacts. The parties expressed interest in continuing the work of the Council and anticipated the next meeting to be held in Astana.

In his speech, the Chairman of the Board of the Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan, Murat Karimsakov, emphasized the importance of the current stage of interaction and noted: “Undoubtedly, our trade and economic cooperation continues to develop steadily, facilitated not only by a stable political dialogue but also by practical steps aimed at strengthening it.”

It was also noted that 18 companies with Norwegian participation are currently registered in Kazakhstan, among which such companies as Jotun - an international chemical company specializing in the production of decorative paints and functional coatings, Mill, engaged in the development and production of equipment for heating and microclimate systems in residential premises, as well as Det Norske Veritas - an international certification and consulting company, are successfully operating. The presence of these companies in the Kazakhstani market confirms a high level of trust from Norwegian businesses and practical interest in long-term work in the country.

The activities of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Atameken” were also presented during the event. It was noted that the Chamber actively participates in the implementation of economic reforms, represents and protects the interests of business, and ensures a stable dialogue between the business community and state bodies. The work of the National Digital Investment Platform, focused on attracting and supporting investment projects based on the “here and now” principle, as well as ensuring transparency and reliability of data for making investment decisions, was also highlighted.

Participants were provided with information about the measures of state support for entrepreneurship and investment in Kazakhstan. In addition, the country operates a system of investment and tax preferences designed to simplify the implementation of investment projects and create favorable conditions for doing business.

Special attention was paid to the role of the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan as an institution providing comprehensive support for export and investment projects. The Chamber assists in finding partners, reviewing and supporting projects, organizing business meetings and forums, and also supports entrepreneurs, including small and medium-sized businesses, in cases of force majeure, helping to minimize risks and protect the interests of companies.

As a result of the meeting, the parties expressed confidence that direct dialogue between the business communities of Kazakhstan and Norway will contribute to further expansion of trade and economic ties, the launch of new joint projects, and the strengthening mutually beneficial partnership.

After the meeting, Murat Karimsakov held separate working negotiations with representatives of the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprises, the EAST Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Norway, and Export Finance Norway. During the discussions, special attention was paid to regional opportunities beyond Astana and Almaty, which may be of interest to Norwegian companies when entering the Kazakhstani market, as well as to the strategic vision of positioning Kazakhstan in global and regional trade over the next ten years. Specific areas in which Norwegian business could make the greatest contribution to implementing Kazakhstan’s long-term economic priorities were also considered.