Digitalization - The Times Of Central Asia

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Digitalization

Kazakhstan to Launch Unified Construction Portal in 2026

Kazakhstan will launch a unified electronic platform for the construction sector on January 1, 2026, Minister of Industry and Construction Yersayin Nagaspayev announced. The digital system aims to streamline operations for both developers and homebuyers by consolidating multiple existing databases into a single portal. Presenting the draft of the new Construction Code to parliament, Nagaspayev said the industry currently relies on several fragmented information systems, creating confusion and inefficiencies. “The new portal has already been developed and passed an information security audit. The only remaining step is to integrate two systems, private and state expertise. We expect full implementation by January,” the minister told the Mazhilis. The Construction Code introduces several digital innovations, including a unique identifier for every construction project, enabling traceability throughout its lifecycle. “If we compare it to everyday life, this unique number is similar to an individual identification number (IIN) for people,” Nagaspayev explained. “It will be assigned automatically at the planning stage within the state urban development cadastre and will remain in the system until the building’s demolition.” This measure will help homeowners access electronic documentation even years after a building’s completion. Currently, many property owners struggle to retrieve original technical or project documents required for renovations or modernization. The system will also include an electronic registry of licensed construction companies, listing only those that have undergone official accreditation. Nagaspayev acknowledged that a significant number of companies and licenses exist only on paper, lacking real production capacity or qualified personnel. “This situation poses risks to construction quality and safety, encourages fictitious participation in public procurement, and distorts the real picture of employment and business activity in the sector,” he said. The new registry will enable authorities to audit existing licenses and integrate the data with other government databases for automated compliance checks. It will also introduce joint liability among market participants, with the potential to suspend or ban companies that commit serious violations. Nagaspayev also announced plans to introduce certification for construction engineers, modeled on European Union practices and adapted to Kazakhstan’s legal framework. “This certification process will be handled in a competitive environment by market participants,” he noted. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan faces a growing labor shortage in the construction sector. Some industry stakeholders are calling for simplified procedures to attract migrant workers to meet rising demand.

Tourism

Tourism in Tajikistan: Five Years of Progress and Persistent Barriers

Five years ago, Canadian researcher Christian Bleuer identified 25 key obstacles hindering the growth of Tajikistan’s tourism sector. Since then, the industry has made measurable progress but many challenges remain unresolved. Digitalization and Initial Progress Significant strides have been made in digital infrastructure. The introduction of electronic visas, online services, and the availability of eSIM cards has improved access for international travelers. Dushanbe has witnessed the opening of new hotels and restaurants, an expansion of taxi services in major cities, and the reconstruction of sections of the M41 highway. Other positive steps include training programs for tour guides, the creation of tourist information centers in Dushanbe, Khorog, and other cities, and growing competition in the hospitality and restaurant industries. Experts also note that travel bloggers and social media have, in some cases, done more to improve the country’s image than official marketing campaigns. Partial Improvements While services have improved in urban areas, regional disparities persist. Tourists can now find decent hotels and cafes in major cities, but service quality outside these hubs remains inconsistent. The e-visa system has streamlined entry procedures, although public awareness of the platform is still low. Digital tools such as Google Maps and mobile apps assist navigation in urban centers, but coverage remains sparse outside Dushanbe and Khujand. Financial infrastructure has also improved, with more ATMs available in the capital. However, access to foreign currency remains a barrier. Aviation has seen some progress under the "Open Skies" policy, with new routes to China and Uzbekistan launched, though high airfares continue to deter potential visitors. Ongoing Challenges Several systemic issues continue to hamper tourism development. Connectivity remains weak: Tajikistan ranks 117th globally for fixed internet speed and lags behind regional peers in mobile data performance, averaging under 24 Mbps. Environmental concerns also diminish the visitor experience. Litter is visible not only in rural areas but even in Dushanbe. Transport remains problematic, with the Jirgatal border crossing closed to foreigners and the Pamir Highway via the Khaburabad Pass largely inaccessible during winter months. A national ban on drones restricts opportunities for photo and video tourism. Additionally, poor coordination among tour operators, taxi drivers, and hoteliers prevents the formation of a unified tourism strategy. Structural Constraints Some limitations are more difficult to overcome. Tajikistan’s geography, landlocked and bordering Afghanistan, poses accessibility challenges. The country also lacks the architectural heritage that makes neighboring Uzbekistan a dominant player in regional cultural tourism. Urban development trends further complicate matters. The demolition of historical buildings and widespread tree-cutting in Dushanbe have eroded the capital’s aesthetic appeal. Tajikistan’s Tourism Development Strategy to 2030 acknowledges the sector’s underperformance. Its contribution to the global tourism market remains modest, constrained by low investment, weak infrastructure, and uneven service quality. Nevertheless, experts believe the sector holds untapped potential. Tourism could create employment opportunities for young people and help reduce labor migration. Realizing this potential will require stronger private sector involvement, upgraded services, and more effective international promotion.

internet access

Next Stop, Wi-Fi: Kazakhstan Pilots Satellite Internet on Rails

Just a few years ago, internet access on passenger trains in Kazakhstan seemed like an unattainable dream. Today, this service is becoming a reality. In an interview, Anuar Akhmetzhanov, Chairman of the Board of JSC Passenger Transport, told The Times of Central Asia that providing passengers with access to high-speed internet on trains is one of the key directions in the digitalization of the passenger transportation sector. Since the beginning of this year, the national company, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (Kazakhstan Railways), together with the official distributor of the low-orbit satellite network OneWeb in Kazakhstan, has launched a pilot project to provide internet access on passenger trains. The service was first introduced on the Astana–Almaty route, and in the spring, on the Astana–Oskemen route. According to Akhmetzhanov, Kazakhstan is among the first countries in the world to implement low-orbit satellite internet on passenger trains. In addition, internet access based on Starlink technology was recently launched in pilot mode on the Astana–Borovoe electric train. “The preliminary results of the pilot project show strong demand from passengers. According to surveys, 87% of our passengers are satisfied with the quality of the internet, and the service meets their expectations,” said Akhmetzhanov. High-speed internet of up to 150 Mbps benefits both passengers and the carrier. Travelers can remain connected throughout the journey, have access to various online services, make online payments during the trip, and enjoy unlimited entertainment options. JSC Passenger Transport will, in turn, gain additional opportunities to sell tickets, control passenger boarding, provide additional services, and ensure safety control by connecting an onboard video surveillance system. “As of today, only three trains are equipped with internet. Work is underway to expand the service to all types of trains. Based on testing results, we plan to roll out the solution to all major routes as early as next year,” noted Akhmetzhanov. One of the main questions for passengers is whether the introduction of internet services on trains will affect ticket prices. On this point, Akhmetzhanov stated that an increase in ticket prices is not currently under consideration. “However, to reduce and offset expenses, the national carrier, together with its partner, is conducting market research on the demand for paid internet packages with higher speeds,” he said. For example, the operator Jusan Mobile offers paid internet services; currently, passengers can choose tariffs for the entire trip or purchase 1 GB packages with the option to increase the volume as needed. There are no restrictions on which internet resources can be accessed. In the near future, JSC Passenger Transportation is preparing to launch internet services on trains traveling on western routes, such as Aktobe–Almaty, Kyzylorda–Semey, and others. The Train Internet project, based on satellite technology, ensures a stable, high-speed connection even in remote and hard-to-reach regions where traditional mobile services are limited. For Kazakhstan, with its vast territory and long travel distances, providing internet access on passenger trains is a service in high demand.

Digitalization

Kazakhstan to Establish Ministry for AI Development, Digital Code, and Crypto Asset Fund

In his annual address to the people of Kazakhstan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev identified digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) as key priorities for the country’s development. The president announced a series of institutional and legislative initiatives aimed at positioning Kazakhstan at the forefront of the global technological transformation. Tokayev emphasized that digitalization and AI should form the foundation for modernizing both the national economy and the system of public administration. He instructed the government to establish a dedicated ministry to oversee the development and regulation of artificial intelligence tools. “The new ministry should be headed by a specialist at the level of deputy prime minister,” Tokayev said. Currently, the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry is the state body responsible for digitalization in Kazakhstan. The new ministry is expected to be created on its basis. In addition, Tokayev called for the development of a dedicated legal framework to support the large-scale adoption of AI. “The government is tasked with ensuring the total implementation of artificial intelligence to modernize all areas of the economy. As a first step, the adoption of the Digital Code should be accelerated,” Tokayev stated. According to Tokayev, the Digital Code will serve as a foundational document outlining Kazakhstan’s strategic directions for digitalization. It will address issues related to artificial intelligence, the platform economy, big data usage, and other areas central to integrating Kazakhstan into the global digital economy. Tokayev also announced plans to establish a state fund for digital assets, based on the investment corporation of the National Bank. “This fund will accumulate a strategic crypto reserve from the most promising assets of the new digital financial order,” he explained. He stressed the urgency of building a comprehensive ecosystem for digital assets and highlighted the importance of integrating the digital tenge, recently launched in Kazakhstan, into financing mechanisms provided by the National Fund. "Despite global instability, we have taken a decisive step into the era of total digitalization and artificial intelligence. My main mission is to ensure the stable socio-economic development and security of Kazakhstan in these turbulent and dangerous times,” Tokayev said. “The rapid development of artificial intelligence is already influencing people’s worldviews and behavior, especially among young people. There is no alternative, as this process is radically changing the world order and the way of life of all humanity. Therefore, I have set the strategically important task of transforming Kazakhstan into a fully-fledged digital country within three years." As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan in July launched alem.cloud, the most powerful supercomputer cluster in Central Asia, designed to support the development and implementation of artificial intelligence technologies.

internet freedom

Kazakhstan’s Rollout of Aitu Messenger Sparks Fears Over Internet Freedom

Kazakhstan is mandating the use of the national messenger Aitu among officials and state-owned enterprises, raising concerns that this move could signal future restrictions on internet freedom. The rollout of Aitu coincides with Russia's introduction of its own national messaging app, Max, which has been accompanied by efforts to block international platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The parallels are fueling fears that Kazakhstan may follow a similar path. Why Is Aitu Being Introduced? By September 15, employees of all government agencies and quasi-public sector organizations in Kazakhstan are required to switch to Aitu. The directive comes from the Digital Headquarters under the leadership of Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov. On August 11, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev instructed the government to strengthen protections around citizens’ personal data. “A significant part of business and official communication, including the transfer of citizens’ personal data, now takes place through international messengers,” he noted. Tokayev cited examples of sensitive data, such as individual identification numbers and medical information, being transmitted via foreign platforms. He linked this to repeated data breaches, stating that Kazakhstan experienced over 40 major leaks in 2025 alone, including a major incident in June that exposed data on millions of citizens. He argued that Aitu is a necessary step to prevent further leaks. Security Concerns Remain Unanswered Originally launched in 2018, Aitu was used on a limited scale during the COVID-19 pandemic and in educational initiatives. Despite its recent promotion, serious questions about its security remain unanswered. On August 29, Deputy Minister of Digital Development Dmitry Mun confirmed that Aitu is owned by Kazakhtelecom JSC, a national monopoly, and BTS. The app's infrastructure is reportedly hosted entirely within Kazakhstan. However, Yevgeny Pitolin, co-chair of the QazTech Alliance's Information Security Committee, criticized the lack of transparency: “There is almost no information about security. In official responses, the administration avoids these questions, claiming it is a matter of national security.” So far, six million people have registered with Aitu, according to the Ministry of Digital Development. Although this represents nearly one-third of Kazakhstan’s population of 20 million, the ministry has not disclosed how frequently the app is used. A Step Toward a Sovereign Internet? A major point of concern among Kazakhstanis is whether Aitu could pave the way for a sovereign internet model similar to those in Russia or China both of which tightly control domestic digital ecosystems. Russia’s Max messenger, modeled after China’s WeChat, integrates payments, government services, banking, and social networking. Though introduced by VK Corporation, the Russian government has embedded itself in its development. In July, the State Duma passed legislation mandating all official communication between citizens and government agencies to occur via Max. It now comes pre-installed on smartphones, and schools and hospitals are transitioning to it. Crucially, Max works only with SIM cards registered in Russia or Belarus, making cross-border communication difficult. Users have reported frequent disruptions in WhatsApp and Telegram access. Critics argue that the Russian state may be moving toward outright bans on foreign messengers. Kazakhstan Denies Similar Plans...

Digitalization

Digital Geopolitics and AI Strategy in Central Asia

Central Asia, long known as a crossroads of global trade routes, is once again emerging as a stage for strategic competition. This time, the old caravan routes have been replaced by digital highways. The new contest is over technologies and data flows. For countries in the region, especially Kazakhstan, choosing a digitalization model and an AI development strategy is no longer just a technical matter. It is a fundamental decision tied to national security and long-term competitiveness. Equally important is the “digital ideology” behind these choices, something clearly illustrated today by two giants of the Global South: China and India, each with over a billion people and very different approaches to digital growth. The Dragon's Shadow: China's Systematic Expansion in Central Asia China’s ongoing real estate crisis, rising debt, and slowing domestic demand have pushed Beijing to look outward for growth. One major tool is the Digital Silk Road, announced in 2015 as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. This long-term program aims to export Chinese digital technologies. For Central Asian states, it brings an appealing “one-stop shop” of turnkey solutions: everything from 5G mobile and 10G-PON fixed networks to smart city systems (Huawei, ZTE), surveillance platforms (Hikvision), and fintech tools (Ant Group, Tencent). The benefits come with risks. A heavy reliance on one supplier creates the danger of vendor lock-in. When an entire digital ecosystem is tied to a single foreign provider, questions of security and long-term debt become inevitable. Kazakhstan has shown flexibility by experimenting with mixed models rather than relying exclusively on Chinese systems. Competing Models: China's "Walled Garden" and India's "Digital Public Infrastructure" China: The model is centralized, built on state corporations and giant platforms. It delivers speed and scale of growth, but at the cost of strict control and regulation. The Chinese government has tightened its grip on big tech companies (Alibaba and Tencent), imposed stricter rules on the collection and use of personal data under the Personal Information Protection Law (2021), and limited the fintech divisions of major firms to prevent systemic risks. India: The state has developed India Stack, a package of open digital platforms (Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker) that serve as the rails for thousands of startups and services. This gave India global leadership in digital payments and created a model of open digitalization. Central Asia is already partially repeating this experience (Kazakhstan’s eGov.kz, Kaspi.kz, and the digital tenge), though without the depth and openness that made the Indian approach unique. Today, Central Asia is forming a pragmatic hybrid: Chinese hardware for rapid infrastructure, Indian logic in public services (GovTech, eGov.kz), and European regulatory standards under the GDPR (in force since 2018), which serves as a global benchmark of trust in data. This “three-axis” hybrid allows a balance between speed of implementation and regulatory control. Europe's Alternative: Global Gateway and the Digital Silk Way Europe seeks to strengthen its position in Central Asia and the South Caucasus by offering an alternative to Chinese expansion. Its key tool is the EU Global Gateway...