Developing processing industries would strengthen Kazakhstan’s strategic autonomy, create greater added value and help the country move higher up the global value chain, she said, News.az reports.
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“Kazakhstan has a lot of potential in terms of critical raw materials. It’s very important not only to extract the critical raw material but also to be able to process them. That’s why this investment is so important in terms of strategic autonomy, added value, and moving up in the value chain.“
Renaud-Basso said attracting more investment into mineral processing would require continued improvements in transparency, particularly broader access to geological data and a stable, predictable regulatory framework for investors.
“Transparency of data is very important for potential investors, but also having a very clear, transparent legal framework. Good progress has been made, but there is always room for improvement.“
She stressed that growing global demand for critical minerals—driven by artificial intelligence, digitalisation and the green transition—is creating new investment opportunities for Kazakhstan.
She also expressed hope that the latest refractory ore processing investment would be followed by additional industrial processing projects.
“We hope there will be more of this kind of project. This one is particularly important because it focuses on processing and involves a long-term local partner.“
Commenting on EBRD investment levels, Renaud-Basso said the decline recorded last year did not reflect weakening confidence in Kazakhstan’s investment climate but was instead due to the timing of major projects.
“Already this year we have invested more than $1 billion in the country, and we probably will end up with around €1.3 billion by the end of the year.“
She said the EBRD remains optimistic about Kazakhstan’s economic outlook and continues to see strong investment opportunities across renewable energy, transport infrastructure, the Middle Corridor, water projects, banking and support for small businesses.
Renaud-Basso also highlighted the launch of Kazakhstan’s digital investment platform as one of the most important recent improvements to the country’s investment climate.
“The implementation of the digital investment platform is a very positive development because it makes life much easier for investors.“
She added that artificial intelligence could play a transformative role in improving Kazakhstan’s investment environment by streamlining administrative procedures and accelerating customs processes.
“AI is a very powerful tool to digitalise and accelerate processes. Using AI in customs procedures would simplify and speed up trade, which is essential for developing connectivity through the Middle Corridor.“
Renaud-Basso said Kazakhstan is well positioned to benefit from AI-driven reforms thanks to its progress in e-government and digitalisation.
