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Internet

Kazakhstan Forecasts Twofold Increase in Internet Traffic Consumption

Kazakhstan is set to double its internet traffic consumption by the end of 2025 compared to the previous year, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev announced during a government meeting. The minister also noted that full population coverage with internet services is not expected until 2027, meaning continued growth in demand is likely. “It is important to note the significant growth in internet traffic consumption this year: we expect it to be twice as high as last year,” Madiyev said. In 2024, total internet traffic in Kazakhstan reached 2.14 million terabytes, with the average subscriber using approximately 22.4 GB per month, 40% above the global average of 16 GB. Madiyev attributed this growth to substantial investment in digital infrastructure. Over the past three years, more than $1.8 billion has been invested in the development of internet and mobile communication services. Kazakhstan now boasts an average internet speed of 94 Mbps, with 20 million mobile internet users and 3.7 million fixed-line subscribers. “By the end of 2027, we plan to provide 100% internet coverage for the population, and internet speeds will exceed 100 megabits per second,” the minister stated. He added that 90% of rural settlements will be connected to fiber-optic communication lines by that time, significantly improving regional connectivity. According to the Kazakh government, of the country’s 6,179 settlements, 119 cities and 4,906 villages currently have access to communications infrastructure. Of these, 2,724 are connected via 3G and 2,182 via 4G. Fixed internet access is available in 1,902 villages through ADSL and in 2,654 villages via fiber-optic networks. Plans are in place to connect an additional 3,000 villages to high-speed internet by 2027. In parallel, 504 remote settlements will receive satellite internet access. Of these, 176 are already connected via KazSat, and a further 328 are expected to be connected through OneWeb by the end of 2025. In June 2025, Kazakhstan signed an agreement with Starlink, which officially began operating in the country on August 13. Starlink’s satellite internet is now used in more than 1,700 rural schools. Overall, 84% of the country’s villages are covered by mobile networks, according to ministry data. Alexander Babichev, Chairman of the Board at Mobile Telecom Service LLP (MTS), stated that 3G technology will be fully phased out in all major cities by the end of 2025, replaced by 4G. In 2026, Kazakhstan is expected to introduce VoWiFi technology nationwide, allowing voice calls over any available Wi-Fi network. “We have successfully conducted a pilot within the company, and next year the technology will become widely available,” said Evgeny Nastradin, Executive Director of Kar-Tel. In parallel, Kazakhstan is developing a national Wi-Fi operator to provide secure internet access across social and transport infrastructure. In the first phase, 400 locations in 10 cities will be covered. By 2027, that figure is expected to grow to 20,000. This infrastructure will support the rollout of digital services and AI-based solutions. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, the European Union has launched a...

Internet

Kazakhstan Trials Ultra-Fast 10G Internet

Kazakhstan has launched a pilot project to test wired internet speeds of up to 10 Gbit/s in its capital, Astana. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the country's digital infrastructure and improve access to high-performance internet services. First Technology Trial The pilot project is being implemented under a memorandum of cooperation between Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan and Astana Innovations JSC. During a recent presentation, participants were introduced to a new generation of networking equipment, including optical terminals, OLT systems, and Wi-Fi 7. In a designated demo zone, guests tested the service and confirmed its stability and high performance. Speed measurements during the trial showed data transfer rates reaching up to 9,490 Mbps, sufficient for uninterrupted use of bandwidth-intensive applications such as 8K video streaming and cloud gaming. Stakeholder Perspectives Gizat Amyrgaly, Chairman of the Board at Astana Innovations JSC, underscored the significance of the rollout: "The launch of 10G in Astana is a strategic step toward building a next-generation digital infrastructure. It is important for us that innovations quickly transition from testing to practical use, delivering tangible benefits to residents and businesses." Sun Yaxiu, CEO of Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan, also highlighted the project’s national relevance: “We are proud that Huawei's 10G PON technology is being introduced for the first time in an open, public project. Ultra-high-speed wired internet will open up new possibilities for the digital transformation of the urban environment, as well as for business, education, and healthcare.” Rauan Kabdrakhimov, CEO of Enterprise CO Beeline, stated the company’s intention to move swiftly from pilot testing to real-world deployment: “Our priority as a digital operator is to apply cutting-edge technology to deliver the best customer experience. We are pleased to be a technology partner in this important initiative.” What Is 10G PON? 10G PON refers to the next generation of wired broadband capable of speeds up to 10 gigabits per second. Unlike mobile technologies such as 4G or 5G, where the number represents a generational standard, the "10" in 10G PON denotes actual data speed. The idea for the pilot network was first discussed in June 2025 during the China-Central Asia Forum. At that time, the Astana City Administration and Huawei signed a cooperation agreement supporting the future deployment of 50G PON and other advanced telecom solutions in the capital. Experts say the successful trial of this technology could pave the way for the widespread introduction of advanced digital services throughout Kazakhstan.

Internet

Splitting the Flow: How Central Asia Can Bypass Russia in Internet Connectivity

In today’s world, reliable mobile communications and internet access are indispensable, and Central Asia is no exception. Digital infrastructure has become a core component of development across the region. Yet, the architecture of internet connectivity in Central Asia has been shaped not only by global technological progress but also by the geopolitical upheavals of the early 2020s, a decade already recognized as historically transformative. Recent developments have renewed focus on this issue. On August 13, Kazakhstan officially joined over 100 countries utilizing Starlink’s satellite internet services, following a June 12, 2025, agreement that confirmed SpaceX's compliance with national laws. The Kazakh Ministry of Digital Development emphasized that Starlink offers stable connectivity “even in the most remote and inaccessible areas,” expanding access to digital services for underserved populations. While Starlink’s rates are higher than local norms, 23,000 KZT ($42.50) a month for home users and 26,000 KZT ($48) for mobile users, the launch signals a broader shift in Kazakhstan’s internet policy. For decades, the country maintained strict control over online access. As late as 2019, the authorities blocked social networks during live streams by exiled oligarch Mukhtar Ablyazov. The 2020 pandemic further exposed infrastructure gaps, with students in remote areas forced to climb rooftops and trees for mobile signals. These stark images, along with a gradual political thaw, likely spurred the momentum for reform. Another catalyst is the war in Ukraine. A recent report by the Internet Society highlights Kazakhstan’s efforts to reduce reliance on Russian internet infrastructure and enhance regional digital resilience. Central Asia’s landlocked geography means it depends heavily on terrestrial fiber optic cables connected to countries with undersea landing stations. Approximately 95% of Kazakhstan’s international internet traffic flows through Russia, posing strategic vulnerabilities amid heightened geopolitical tensions. To address this, Kazakhstan is investing in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems and exploring alternative terrestrial fiber routes, including a long-discussed cable under the Caspian Sea connecting to Europe. As of January 2024, Kazakhstan had 18.2 million internet users, 92.3% of the population, with average fixed-line speeds of 53.86 Mbps, ranking 94th globally, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Index. Uzbekistan Follows Suit Uzbekistan, the region’s second-largest economy, is also seeking to diversify its digital dependencies. In March 2025, Tashkent signed agreements with the European Union on a satellite internet project and the “Connectivity for Central Asia” program, both aimed at extending access to remote communities and modernizing digital infrastructure. These initiatives are part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy. “By investing in digital connectivity, we are bridging gaps, creating opportunities, and ensuring that Central Asia has access to the benefits of the digital economy,” said European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen. As of early 2024, Uzbekistan had 34.2 million mobile subscribers and 29.5 million internet users, an 83.3% penetration rate. Basic fixed-line internet packages cost 55,000 UZS ($4.40) per month for 6 Mbps daytime speeds; premium plans offer 50 Mbps for about $8. As reported by The Times of Central Asia, Starlink is expected to launch in Uzbekistan in 2026....

Internet

Starlink Expected to Launch in Uzbekistan in 2026

The U.S.-based satellite internet provider Starlink is expected to begin operations in Uzbekistan in 2026, according to information published on the company’s official service availability website. Developed and operated by SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, Starlink is designed to deliver high-speed internet access to underserved and remote areas around the world. Typical download speeds range between 50 and 250 megabits per second, making it an attractive option for regions with limited digital infrastructure. In neighboring Kazakhstan, Starlink officially launched earlier this month following a pilot phase during which the system primarily served rural schools. With the commercial rollout now complete, the service is available to all users across Kazakhstan, signaling Central Asia’s increasing integration into global next-generation connectivity networks. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s national space agency, Uzbekcosmos, has submitted a proposal to host the International Astronautical Congress in Samarkand in 2028. As part of the evaluation process, Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director of the International Astronautical Federation, recently visited Samarkand and Tashkent to assess infrastructure, security, and organizational capabilities. If successful, Uzbekistan’s bid could bring global space industry leaders and potentially Elon Musk himself, to the historic Silk Road city.

Internet

Turkmenistan Tightens Internet Blocks to Promote State-Controlled VPNs

Internet restrictions in Turkmenistan have intensified sharply in recent weeks, according to sources who spoke with turkmen.news. Authorities have reportedly expanded the national IP blacklist by adding numerous /16 subnets, each covering over 65,000 IP addresses. While such sweeping blocks might appear politically motivated, insiders claim the real motive is commercial: corrupt officials are using the restrictions to market and sell VPN services and “whitelist” access they control themselves. In July 2024, Turkmen authorities briefly restored access to around 3 billion previously blocked IP addresses, raising hopes of a more open digital environment and a boost to the stagnant online economy. However, that reprieve proved temporary. The blocks soon returned, initially targeting smaller /24 subnets (255 IP addresses each). This summer, the government's cybersecurity department escalated efforts by blocking entire /16 subnets, cutting off hundreds of thousands of websites in a matter of weeks. Restrictions Without Justification Turkmenistan already ranks among the most digitally isolated nations. Independent media, global social networks, and any platforms perceived to host criticism of the government have long been inaccessible. However, the latest wave of blocks is not driven by political considerations, as most politically sensitive platforms were already restricted. Instead, the scale and targets of the new blocks suggest other motivations. According to turkmen.news, even benign and essential online services, such as update servers for antivirus software like Bitdefender and some Google utilities, have been caught in the dragnet. Experts warn that this poses a growing cybersecurity risk in a country with limited digital literacy and inadequate access to software updates. Selling Access in a Closed System Sources allege that Turkmen officials are using the crackdown to corner the market for virtual private networks. VPN keys now cost around 1,000 manats (roughly $50) per month, while access to a whitelist, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity, can run up to $2,000 monthly. The officials reportedly behind the scheme are said to be deliberately blocking alternatives to force users into purchasing their products. Last year, turkmen.news identified several figures allegedly involved in this scheme: Maksat Geldyev, Allanazar Kulnazarov, and Didar Seyidov. While these individuals reportedly profit from the artificial scarcity they create, the broader economy suffers. Analysts estimate that Turkmenistan loses millions of dollars daily due to the constraints on digital development, which is a key factor in modern GDP growth. Official Denials Amid International Scrutiny Despite mounting evidence, the Turkmen government continues to deny the severity of the situation. The Foreign Ministry recently issued a statement condemning Ukrainian television channel FreeDom for what it described as “biased and false” coverage of the country’s internet restrictions. Nonetheless, experts warn that unless the government reverses course, Turkmenistan’s digital isolation will continue to hinder economic development, deepen cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and further disconnect its population from the global information space.

Internet

Kyrgyz MPs Propose Ban on Pornographic Websites

A group of Kyrgyz parliamentarians has introduced draft legislation aimed at banning the distribution of pornographic content online. The proposal, currently under review, has sparked a mixed response among lawmakers. The bill seeks to restrict access to websites hosting pornographic material and establish legal liability for their distribution. Under the draft law, the Ministry of Digital Development would be required to block access to online resources featuring prohibited content within 24 hours of receiving a complaint. Alternatively, the site owners must remove the content upon request from an authorized state body. If they fail to comply, the site could be blocked for up to two months. The bill also grants any citizen the right to file a complaint with authorities if they encounter pornographic content online. However, the initiative has drawn criticism from some MPs. Deputy Dastan Bekeshev questioned whether the proposed legislation duplicates existing laws. He pointed out that Kyrgyzstan already has legal provisions banning harmful content for children, including pornography. “Do we need another law? Isn’t the previous one enough? We’ve already banned child pornography. Maybe adults should be allowed access to such content, at least with a password?” he asked. “In Japan, for example, people watch pornography, and nothing happens, the country continues to develop. If you ban everything online, people will start looking for it on the streets.” Bekeshev argued that while the goal may be to promote public morality, such measures often fail and can even be counterproductive. “We need to begin with ourselves and lead by example,” he added. In response, Marat Togaev, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy, explained that the current law only permits blocking websites registered within Kyrgyzstan. The new bill, he said, is designed to extend enforcement to websites regardless of jurisdiction. Following parliamentary debate, the bill passed its first reading. Togaev noted that while telecom operators have the technical capability to block pornographic websites, they cannot prevent users from accessing such content via VPNs.