Kazakhstan - The Times Of Central Asia

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Society

In Kazakhstan, Gender Imbalance Persists Even Among Teenagers

A recent study by Finprom.kz, conducted in partnership with the National Statistics Bureau, sheds light on how Kazakhstani citizens allocate their time across work, leisure, and household duties. The findings reveal significant gender disparities that begin in adolescence and continue into adulthood. Unequal Distribution of Labor at Home The study was based on data from a modular survey conducted every five years, involving approximately 12,000 respondents nationwide. Participants maintained daily activity logs, including both weekdays and weekends. On weekdays, men in Kazakhstan work an average of 9 hours and 7 minutes, about an hour longer than women. However, when it comes to household duties and childcare, women spend more than twice as much time: 2 hours and 13 minutes compared to 48 minutes for men. The gap widens on weekends, with women spending 4 hours and 44 minutes on domestic tasks, compared to 1.5 hours for men. Meanwhile, men spend more time on social media, television, and reading the news, around 1.5 hours on weekdays and nearly 3 hours on weekends. Women engage in these activities roughly an hour less. A similar trend appears in general leisure and relaxation time, where men again lead. Gender Norms Form Early Gendered patterns in domestic labor emerge as early as adolescence. Boys aged 10-14 spend about 1 hour and 6 minutes a day on household chores, while girls dedicate 1 hour and 52 minutes. Cooking accounts for a large portion of this difference, with girls spending an average of 44 minutes on meal preparation. The study also found that parents with higher education levels spend more time with their children, regardless of employment status. Interestingly, unemployed men spend three times less time with their children than employed men, regardless of the day of the week. This correlation was not observed among women. Despite traditional assumptions, men dedicate nearly as much time to personal care as women. On weekdays, men spend 1 hour and 17 minutes on hygiene and grooming, just 3 minutes less than women. On weekends, they spend even more: 1 hour and 40 minutes, compared to 1 hour and 29 minutes for women. Unemployed men consistently surpass women in this area. Regional Disparities and Stress The study highlighted notable regional differences in time use. In North Kazakhstan, residents spend about 1.5 hours daily on cooking and eating, while in Shymkent, the figure is nearly double. Shymkent residents also spend just 8 minutes a day on rest and reflection, compared to over an hour in Mangistau. Cleaning and laundry take up 1.5 hours a day in Shymkent, one of the highest rates in the country. In contrast, residents of Astana spend just 39 minutes on these tasks. Screen time also varies significantly. On average, Kazakhs spend 2 hours and 3 minutes daily on digital content. In North and East Kazakhstan, this climbs to 2 hours and 40 minutes. Residents of Almaty, Ulytau, and Shymkent average 2 hours and 14 minutes, while those in Kyzylorda and Mangistau spend the least, 1 hour and...

Biopesticide Trials in Kyrgyzstan Pave Way for Greener Locust Control

Between June 10 and 13, Kyrgyzstan conducted a national trial of biological pesticides in the northern Chuy region, marking a step forward in the country’s push toward environmentally responsible locust management. The trial was led by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and FAO’s own resources. The initiative is part of the broader “Programme to Improve National and Regional Locust Management in the Caucasus and Central Asia (CCA),” which aims to shift countries away from reliance on chemical pesticides. According to the FAO, biopesticides, particularly those using the Metarhizium acridum fungus, are emerging as an effective, selective alternative to chemical treatments. These biological agents target locusts and grasshoppers without harming humans or non-target species such as pollinators, birds, and aquatic life. Kyrgyzstan regularly faces locust threats from two species: the Moroccan locust and the Italian locust. Both are capable of rapid reproduction and forming large swarms that can severely damage crops and pastures. “Biological pesticides offer a safer alternative for controlling locusts before they reach crisis levels,” said Oleg Guchgeldiyev, FAO Representative in Kyrgyzstan. “They are especially useful for fragile ecosystems. Continued testing will enhance scientific and technical capacity, paving the way for a more resilient agricultural sector.” Field trials are a critical step toward integrating biopesticides into national locust control strategies. The urgency of the initiative is underscored by recent government data. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, the Ministry of Agriculture surveyed 114,000 hectares earlier this month and found locusts present on nearly two-thirds of the land. More than 74,000 hectares have already been treated with pesticides. The infestation has been particularly severe in southern regions, where early harvest cycles and warm temperatures create ideal conditions for locust breeding. By embracing biopesticides, Kyrgyzstan hopes to reduce environmental risks while maintaining effective pest control, balancing agricultural productivity with ecological responsibility.

Personal Data of 16 Million Kazakh Citizens Leaked

Kazakhstan has experienced one of the most extensive personal data breaches in its history. According to Olzhas Satiev, President of the Center for Analysis and Investigation of Cyber Attacks (CARKA), over 16.3 million records, representing nearly the entire population, have been made publicly accessible. Scope of the Breach The compromised data includes surnames, first names, patronymics, gender, date of birth, individual identification numbers (IIN), addresses, phone numbers, citizenship, ethnicity, and other sensitive details. The source of the leak has not been identified. Experts suggest it may be a compilation of previously hacked databases redistributed via closed Telegram channels. Alternatively, it could stem from a new, as yet undetected breach. “This is one of the largest leaks. An investigation is currently underway. We are awaiting information from the technical service of the National Security Committee (KNB),” said Satiev. Government Response and Ongoing Investigation The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry (MCIA) stated that it is closely monitoring the incident. The ministry’s Information Security Committee, in cooperation with law enforcement and intelligence agencies, is analyzing the leaked data and verifying its relevance. Initial assessments suggest the breach likely originated from private information systems. The MCIA emphasized that no cyberattacks on government databases have been detected. “It is premature to draw final conclusions or confirm the accuracy of the leaked information until the investigation concludes,” the ministry said. Individuals affected by the leak will be notified through the e-government portal. The ministry also noted that previous leaks involved outdated information sourced from microfinance organizations and other commercial entities. Combating the Shadow Data Market Separately, the Ministry of Internal Affairs recently dismantled an organized group involved in the illegal sale of personal data. Authorities say the group accessed state databases and distributed information through Telegram channels, often in cooperation with debt collection agencies. More than 140 individuals, including channel administrators and company executives, were detained. Five suspects remain in custody. Investigators seized over 400 pieces of computer and electronic equipment. “The information was obtained from state databases and distributed through Telegram channels. Work is ongoing to identify all parties involved,” said Zhandos Suinbay, head of the Interior Ministry’s cybercrime division. Criminal proceedings have been launched under Articles 205 (unlawful access to information), 147 (violation of privacy), and 211 (distribution of restricted data) of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan. The Interior Ministry vowed to intensify efforts to prevent further data breaches and urged citizens to be cautious, particularly when sharing personal information or using unsecured digital platforms.

Biotechnology

China to Invest $500M in Corn Processing in Kazakhstan

Chinese biopharmaceutical company Yili Chuanning Biological Co. will invest $500 million in a large-scale corn processing project in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region. The announcement came during the China-Central Asia Industrial and Investment Cooperation Forum held in Astana, where a memorandum of cooperation was signed between the Almaty region’s Akimat (local government) and Yili Chuanning, one of China’s leading biopharmaceutical firms. The agreement outlines the construction of a major processing facility in the Yenbekshikazakh district’s Shelek industrial zone. The project will incorporate advanced biotechnology for the production of amino acids, probiotics, and biodegradable materials, including packaging and medical products. The investment, valued at approximately $500 million, is expected to create up to 1,000 new jobs. The plant is projected to process hundreds of thousands of tons of corn annually. Chinese specialists are currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of the site, examining infrastructure, logistics, and economic factors, and preparing a phased implementation strategy. During the forum, additional agreements were signed regarding Chinese investments in Kazakhstan’s agricultural processing sector, several of which also target corn processing. One such initiative is an $800 million project by the Fufeng Group in the Zhambyl region. This facility will process up to one million tons of corn per year to produce high-value-added goods such as lysine and amino acids. It is expected to generate around 1,500 jobs and provide stable demand for regional farmers. Offtake contracts have already been signed for the supply of 300,000 tons of corn in 2025. In the Turkestan region, Xinjiang Lihua Group Co., Ltd. is developing a $420 million integrated cotton cluster. The project encompasses the entire production chain, from cotton cultivation to the manufacture of finished textile goods. Separately, the Investment Committee of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs signed a contract with Qingdao Wanlin Food Corporation for an $89 million facility dedicated to onion dehydration and deep vegetable processing. The plant will primarily export to China, the United States, and Europe. Kazakhstan is intensifying its efforts to advance deep agricultural processing, driven in part by challenges in exporting raw commodities.

Tourism

Kazakh Nomads and Authentic Tourism: Interview with Mongolia’s Cultural Envoy Dr. Gantemur Damba at CAMCA

This week The Times of Central Asia will be attending the CAMCA Regional Forum, which this year is being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The CAMCA network is a collection of professionals and policymakers dedicated to sharing ideas, knowledge and inspiration to develop the Eurasia region; its name stands for Central Asia, Mongolia, the Caucasus and Afghanistan. Ahead of the Forum, The Times of Central Asia spoke with Mongolia’s Cultural Envoy, and the Vice Chair of the Asian Ecotourism Network, Dr. Gantumur Damba, about the country's Kazakh nomads, and what the CAMCA program means for Mongolian culture and tourism. TCA: Central Asia is geographically quite close to Mongolia, but Mongolia's culture is distinct. What parts of Mongolian life do you think make journeys here unique for visitors? GD: Indeed. While Mongolia has some cultural similarities with Central Asia due to historical links, it has developed its own distinct identity. We are a unique culture with influences from Buddhism, shamanism and animism in our pastoralist herder’s way of life. Eastern Mongolia is rich in historical sites, including Deluun Boldog, where Genghis Khan was born, and the historical ruins of 13th and 14th-century towns. Central Mongolia is centered on the ancient town of Kharkhorum – with UNESCO-inscribed intangible cultural events – and the beautiful Orkhon Valley. This region is also enriched by Mongolian Buddhist traditions and architectural sites. North Mongolia is the home of nomadic reindeer herders, who have strong shamanistic beliefs. They are one of the last groups in the world to still herd reindeer as their primary way of life. Mongolia's largest ethnic minority are Kazakhs, who live in the country's western regions. What opportunities do visitors to Mongolia have to discover the Mongolian Kazakh way of life? The Kazakhs of Mongolia have distinct cultural practices, and live mainly in western Mongolia, particularly in Bayan-Ölgii province. While they share a common heritage with Kazakhs in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian nations, their experience in Mongolia is shaped by their minority status and the influence of Mongolian culture and Buddhism, alongside their own Turkic language and Islamic traditions. Activities like eagle hunting demonstration events, trekking in the Altai Mountains, and exploring authentic nomadic life offer unique travel experiences. Travelers can experience authentic nomad Kazakh culture through homestays, participating in festivals, and witnessing traditional crafts, traditional music, epic storytelling and vibrant dances like the eagle dance. What places and activities in Mongolia do you most recommend to foreign visitors? Are you working on any new destinations? Mongolia offers a high degree of freedom and flexibility for travelers, especially when it comes to camping and exploring the vast landscapes. There are relatively few restrictions on where you can go and camp, and you can often choose your own route and pace. However, choosing the right travel partner is vital. I categorize our destinations according to three “Ms”. The first M stands for modified places – basically those that are spoiled. That includes Terelj, Kharkhorum and West Khuvsgul Lake, where you will find many resorts,...

Is Central Asia China’s Backdoor to Global Power?

As Russia remains preoccupied with the war in Ukraine and the United States is focused on the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, China is seeking to increase its presence in Central Asia. In the current circumstances, the European Union and Beijing appear to be the most active players in the strategically important region; but who is in a better position? Central Asia has become a region where various foreign powers are competing for influence. On June 5, New Delhi hosted the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue, during which the foreign ministers of the regional nations, along with their Indian counterpart, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, discussed anti-terrorism cooperation amid rising regional extremism. Earlier, on April 3–4, the European Union sought to expand its ties with the region through the EU–Central Asia Summit format. Given China’s extensive economic cooperation with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan, it is unsurprising that Beijing is seeking to strengthen its strategic influence in the region. The 2nd China-Central Asia Summit, taking in Astana on June 16-17, is yet another opportunity for Beijing to demonstrate that it has the capacity to position itself as an alternative to the growing European presence in the region. According to Dr. Habib Al-Badawi, Professor of International Relations at the Lebanese University, China is also aiming to limit the influence of other powers in the region – especially the United States, and to a lesser extent, Russia. “Moscow appears to accept China's growing economic dominance while trying to maintain its traditional security role. However, Beijing's expanding presence represents a long-term challenge to Russia's historical sphere of influence in the region,” Dr. Al-Badawi told The Times of Central Asia, emphasizing that Moscow and Beijing are more inclined to cooperate rather than compete in the region. Mark N. V. Temnycky, a Nonresident Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, believes that Moscow is showing a high degree of tolerance toward Beijing’s increased economic, energy, and security presence in Central Asia. Both countries, in his view, share similar objectives in the region, where they act as major trading partners and energy suppliers. The European Union seems to be their major rival in the Central Asia. In Dr. Al-Badawi’s view, unlike the EU that is “solely pursuing the region’s critical minerals,” China appears focused on broader economic integration through infrastructure development and trade partnerships. Dr. Tugrul Keskin, Professor at Cappadocia University and Moderator of Global China Academic Network, seems to share this view. “Beijing’s objectives in Central Asia are driven by a blend of strategic, economic, and security imperatives. While access to critical minerals – including rare earth elements vital for green technologies – is an emerging interest, it is not the primary driver. Unlike the European Union, whose recent engagement has focused heavily on securing raw materials, China’s approach is more comprehensive. It aims to shape the region’s long-term political alignments and economic structures in ways that favor Chinese leadership and diminish Western influence,” Dr. Keskin told The Times of Central Asia. At the same time, Beijing is actively increasing...