Kazakhstan tourism generates KZT 630b in taxes

Dhaka: Kazakhstan’s tourism industry contributed KZT 630 billion in tax revenues last year, reflecting steady growth in one of the country’s expanding economic sectors, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

Foreign visitors spent an estimated USD 2.9 billion in the country, while total investment in tourism infrastructure rose 33 percent year-on-year to KZT 1.3 trillion. Officials also reported that tourism’s overall economic impact is now valued at around KZT 5 trillion.

The sector continues to be a major employer, supporting more than 600,000 jobs nationwide. At the same time, visitor numbers are increasing, with over 10 million tourists staying in accommodation facilities last year, a 12 percent rise compared to previous periods.

Kazakhstan’s natural attractions remain a key driver of tourism growth, with national parks attracting 3.7 million visitors in 2025. Authorities are also focusing on ecotourism development, aiming to balance rising visitor demand with environmental protection through improved infrastructure and regulated access to natural sites.

Medical tourism is emerging as another growth area, with around 80,000 foreign patients visiting Kazakhstan last year. Several medical institutions in the country now hold international JCI accreditation, and a new roadmap for medical tourism development is planned for 2026–2028.

The country’s global tourism profile is also improving, with Kazakhstan rising in the World Economic Forum’s travel and tourism competitiveness index from 66^th to 52^nd place.