The United States has imposed a new wave of import tariffs, and Kazakhstan has come under fire. A 25% duty on part of its exports came as a surprise to Astana, especially given Washington’s earlier promises of investment and strategic partnership. This is the first time the region’s largest economy has faced such restrictions from the U.S.
Although oil, uranium, and ferroalloys have been temporarily exempted from the tariffs, concern is growing within Kazakhstan’s business community. Even the 5% of exports affected by the duties hits small and medium-sized businesses — particularly in the chemical and metallurgical sectors. The government has already initiated consultations with the U.S. and intensified its foreign economic relations with the EU and China.
The tariff crisis has become a test of the resilience of Kazakhstan’s foreign economic strategy. It once again underscores the importance of flexibility, multi-vector diplomacy, and readiness for rapid shifts in global politics.
Read more in the new analytical report by Teniz Capital Investment Banking here.