Kazakhstan and North Macedonia Expand Business Cooperation: Agreement on the Establishment of a Business Council Signed

On April 20, 2026, a Kazakhstan–North Macedonia Business Forum was held in Skopje (North Macedonia) with the participation of representatives of government bodies and business communities of both countries.

The forum was attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of the Republic of North Macedonia, Timčo Mucunski, and the Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Arman Shakkaliyev. The Kazakh side was also represented by Kanat Alin, Director of the Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Astana.

The key highlight of the forum was the document signing ceremony held in the presence of the ministers, during which an Agreement on the Establishment of a Business Council between The Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan and the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia was signed.

Speaking at the plenary session, Kanat Alin noted:
“Signing the Agreement on the establishment of the Business Council between our chambers is not merely a formal protocol act. It is a practical instrument that opens a direct channel for interaction between businesses and support institutions, accelerates the establishment of B2B contacts, and creates a platform for implementing concrete projects in trade, logistics, pharmaceuticals, food and light industry, as well as in services and technology”.

During the forum, it was emphasized that over more than three decades of diplomatic relations, Kazakhstan and North Macedonia have built a solid foundation for cooperation. At the same time, current trade indicators demonstrate significant untapped potential. In 2025, bilateral trade turnover amounted to USD 3.7 million, with a decline observed in both exports and imports, highlighting the need to intensify joint efforts to expand trade flows and launch new projects.

Particular attention was paid to practical measures aimed at strengthening partnership, including creating conditions for the implementation of investment initiatives, developing transit routes, and enhancing cooperation in key sectors of the economy.

It was noted that The Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan serves as a practical platform for business support, offering a comprehensive range of services—from market analysis and partner search to foreign economic activity support and turnkey project implementation. Among its tools is the issuance of the international customs document Carnet ATA, which allows for the temporary duty-free import of goods, including exhibition samples and equipment.

The forum and the signing of the agreement on the establishment of the Business Council marked an important step toward strengthening business ties between Kazakhstan and North Macedonia, laying the groundwork for the practical implementation of joint initiatives aimed at expanding trade and investment cooperation.