Kazakhstan plans to establish a pilot zone named “CryptoCity” to facilitate the free circulation of cryptocurrencies, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced at the Astana International Forum (AIF).
“We plan to create an innovative pilot zone called CryptoCity, where cryptocurrencies can be used to purchase goods, services, and for other purposes,” Tokayev stated.
The president highlighted Kazakhstan’s progress in digital transformation, positioning the country as a potential Eurasian IT hub. He also outlined ambitions for Kazakhstan to become an academic and innovation center through partnerships with foreign universities and increased research and development.
“Kazakhstan is launching the most powerful supercomputer, which has already been delivered to the country,” Tokayev said, referencing a recent agreement between the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry and Presight AI Ltd. The system, boasting a performance of about 2 exaflops, was developed under a strategic partnership with G42, an Abu Dhabi-based technology group.
Cryptocurrency regulation remains a divisive issue in Kazakhstan. While the National Bank supports liberalizing the sector, several members of parliament are advocating for increased state control.
Tokayev used the economic forum to reaffirm Kazakhstan’s commitment to innovation as a tool for societal development.
“Our primary task is to reduce regional disparities and strengthen the middle class. That is why we continue to bolster our capabilities in key sectors, from digital technologies and artificial intelligence to clean energy and high value-added manufacturing,” he said.
He also emphasized regional cooperation: “Kazakhstan is ready to share its emerging IT capabilities with its neighbors and collaborate with all countries interested in fostering economic ties.”
Reflecting on global trends, Tokayev warned of growing protectionism and weakening multilateralism. “There are different scenarios for the future, some offer opportunities, others harbor risks. Will we see inclusive progress or destructive fragmentation? This depends not on the declarations of a few, but on the cooperation of the majority,” he concluded.
