Other ServicesAccounting, real estate and transfers

Kazakhstan's accounting system relies primarily on the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which the country began adopting in 2007 for large and listed companies.

Small and medium companies are allowed to use simplified accounting standards aligned with local legislation. The system focuses on transparency and accuracy in recording financial transactions. Accounting is regulated by the Kazakhstani Ministry of Finance, with compliance overseen by bodies such as the financial control committee.

Oil and gas: Kazakhstan is a leading economic power in Central Asia, its economy built on natural resources with growing agricultural and industrial sectors. It produces oil and gas in large volumes, ranking 12th worldwide in oil reserves and 14th in natural gas. Oil production in 2019 reached around 90 million tonnes with major exports to Europe and Asia.

Minerals: it is the world's top uranium producer, with Kazatomprom controlling 40% of the global market, and produces metals such as gold, copper, zinc, iron and silver, making it a mining leader.

Agriculture: it exports wheat in huge volumes as the sixth largest producer worldwide, shipping around 8 million tonnes a year, and grows barley, cotton, sugar beet, sunflower and rice. Southern regions such as Shymkent are famous for apples, walnuts and camel-thorn honey with its health benefits. The livestock sector is strong, raising cattle, sheep and horses, with dairy and meat products used widely.

Manufacturing: focused on metals processing, chemicals and agricultural machinery, producing food, textiles and industrial equipment. It runs equipment assembly projects with companies from Russia and Ukraine, such as tractors and farm machinery. Industry is concentrated in cities such as Almaty, Karaganda and Atyrau, with growing investment in light industry and technology.

Ownership in Kazakhstan is based on civil law following the Romano-Germanic system. The constitution guarantees protection of private and public property while stressing that property must serve the public interest. The state owns natural resources such as land, water and minerals, but land can be privately owned under specific conditions set by the Land Code. Individuals and companies, including foreigners, may own residential and commercial property such as apartments, offices and industrial buildings.

Foreigners need a residence permit to buy property under the law on the legal status of foreigners. Agricultural land is off-limits to foreigners; only Kazakhstani citizens may own it. Strategic sectors such as telecoms and defence are tightly restricted: foreigners may not own more than 49% of shares, and government approval is required for major investments in these fields. The laws are set out in the civil code, and property is registered with the real estate registration centre. Investors are advised to use a specialist lawyer to ensure legal compliance and avoid complications.

Buying: foreigners need a residence permit. The property is chosen through estate agents or sites such as Krisha.kz or Korter.kz, the price is negotiated with the seller, then a sale contract is signed before a notary and the property is registered with the real estate registration centre. Fees include registration at 0.5-1% of the property value plus notary fees. A lawyer is recommended for compliance. Buying is considered a profitable investment thanks to high rental demand in Almaty and Astana.

Renting: easier, with apartments and offices widely available, especially small apartments and offices in business districts. You can search through agents or sites such as Krisha.kz. A lease is signed setting the term, usually 6-12 months, the rent and both parties' obligations; notarising it is preferred. A month's rent in advance may be required plus a deposit equal to one month. Renting provides steady income, especially in Almaty where demand from international students and companies is high; rents in Almaty range between $300 and $1,500 per month by size and location.