The Government of Kazakhstan has expanded the Saryarka Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Karaganda region and added tourism development to its official objectives. The zone's territory has increased by 145 hectares to a total of 1,416.626 hectares, Qazinform News Agency reports.
The changes were approved by Government Resolution No. 969, adopted on November 2, 2026. Under the resolution, the Saryarka SEZ covers parts of Karaganda and Balkhash cities, as well as Bukhar-Zhyrau and Karkaraly districts in Karaganda region. It also includes Sary-Arka Airport.
A key amendment adds tourism development to the SEZ's official objectives, with a focus on boosting the region's tourism potential and developing competitive infrastructure for both domestic and international visitors. Previously, the zone's main priorities included developing the metallurgical and metalworking industries, attracting manufacturers, expanding raw material processing, and producing competitive, high-value-added products.
The resolution will come into force 10 calendar days after its first official publication. Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that Kazakhstan plans to introduce new international air routes to Vienna, New York, Milan, and other destinations in 2027.