KazCIC Organizes Meeting with Asian Development Bank on Business Climate and SME Support

A meeting between representatives of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan “Atameken” and a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), organized by the Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan (KazCIC), took place in Astana. Held on October 20 at the premises of the National Chamber, the meeting focused on improving the business climate and developing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The NCE “Atameken” was represented by Dinara Akynbekova, Director of the Business Regulation Department; Anzhelika Glebova, Deputy Director of the Department; Ksenia Semenchuk, Director of the Department for Regional and SME Development; and Ainur Tazhibayeva, Deputy Director of the Financial Sector Department.

The ADB delegation included Jason P. Lopez, Public Sector Economist; Ganzul Erdenebal, Public Sector Specialist; and Yerlan Khassenbekov, National Consultant.

Discussing the current business climate, Dinara Akynbekova noted that Kazakhstan has been systematically working to improve conditions for entrepreneurial activity over the past several years. Starting a business has become easier; however, certain regulatory and administrative challenges remain and require further attention. According to her, the growth in the number of business entities has been driven primarily by small businesses, including individual entrepreneurs. In this regard, assessments of the business climate should consider not only the ease of starting a business but also the conditions for its continued operation.

The participants also examined key challenges facing SME development, including access to financing and public services. Particular attention was paid to the effectiveness of existing government business support measures and opportunities to improve their delivery mechanisms.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties discussed priority areas for reforms in business regulation and SME support over the next three to five years, as well as prospects for cooperation with the Asian Development Bank.