Corporate Tax Insights for Investors and Businesses
in Kazakhstan

Investors considering projects in Kazakhstan may benefit from a range of incentives, including exemptions from taxes and customs duties on imports, grants in kind, legislative stability guarantees, and simplified procedures for obtaining work permits. The specific support measures vary depending on the industry and the nature of the investment project.

PwC Kazakhstan offers end-to-end support throughout the investment journey — from conducting analysis and providing recommendations on the most suitable investment programs and available incentives, to assisting with the preparation of feasibility studies, business plans, and application forms, and facilitating negotiations and the conclusion of an investment contract with the Government.

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are one of the key tools for attracting investment in the Republic of Kazakhstan. These zones are integrated platforms offering tax incentives, developed infrastructure, and a streamlined “one-stop shop” service. They provide investors with a broad range of tax and non-tax benefits aimed at driving economic growth, attracting capital, and supporting industrial diversification.

As of 2025, Kazakhstan operates 15 SEZs, with one more under development. The first zones — Astana – New City and Sea Port Aktau — served as pilot projects. In 2025, two additional zones were launched: Aktobe, located near the international airport in Aktobe Region, and Korkyt Ata in Kyzylorda Region, close to Kyzylorda’s international airport.

EPC projects in Kazakhstan may be subject to specific tax implications, and early planning and structuring are strongly recommended.  In certain cases, failure to properly structure the project may result in the application of a 20% withholding tax on the gross contract amount.

To effectively manage tax risks, it is critical to engage tax advisors early in the project lifecycle, particularly when handling complex transactions.

Early involvement enables proper structuring of contractual and operational processes, helping to reduce potential tax liabilities and ensure compliance with local tax regulations.

Regular tax reviews and diagnostics are also essential for identifying existing and potential risks. These assessments help pinpoint vulnerabilities and develop targeted strategies to strengthen tax controls and maintain regulatory compliance for both past and future periods.

PwC Kazakhstan offers a comprehensive suite of tax advisory services, including tax diagnostics and strategic planning, designed to identify risks early and deliver effective solutions to mitigate them.

The AIFC tax regime offers significant incentives through January 1, 2066, including exemptions from corporate income tax and VAT for AIFC participants engaged in specific financial activities.

Until the same date, income such as dividends and interest on securities listed on the Astana International

Exchange, dividends from AIFC participants, and capital gains from the sale of such securities or shares in AIFC-registered entities are also exempt from corporate and personal income tax.

PwC Kazakhstan provides expertise in structuring business operations in Kazakhstan, including advising on the application of tax benefits available under local legislation.