Kazakhstan has significantly increased its spending on research and development, but this has yet to translate into a noticeable economic impact. Analysts point to structural imbalances and a weak link between science and business.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, research and development (R&D) funding in 2025 amounted to approximately $549 million, an increase of 19% compared to the previous year and nearly threefold over the past five years. At the same time, the funding structure has shifted toward greater state involvement. The share of budgetary funds rose to 81.5%, up from 51.3% in 2020, while private sector participation has declined to minimal levels.
Experts note that this model limits the commercialization of scientific developments, which in most countries is primarily driven by the business sector.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has previously stated that science funding has yet to deliver practical results, highlighting systemic inefficiencies and the ineffective use of resources.
More than half of total funding, about $282 million, is allocated to research staff salaries. Meanwhile, approximately $117 million is spent on equipment, materials, and infrastructure. Funding for experimental design and development work, critical for bringing technologies to market, has declined to around $29 million, down from the previous year. Most expenditures continue to be directed toward basic and applied research.
Despite increased investment, science’s contribution to the economy remains limited. R&D spending accounted for approximately 0.16% of GDP in 2025, unchanged from the previous year. Industry participation in scientific research also remains low, with spending in key sectors such as metallurgy, mechanical engineering, and the chemical industry lagging behind.
Analysts argue that without a stronger role for the private sector and more effective commercialization mechanisms, increased funding is unlikely to produce significant technological outcomes.
