President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree aimed at stimulating and developing the digital assets industry in the republic. The document, titled "On Measures to Stimulate and Develop the Digital Assets Industry in the Republic of Kazakhstan," is intended to lay the foundation for a "modern and transparent ecosystem of digital financial services."
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, the National Bank, other relevant government agencies, as well as the Astana International Financial Centre, participated in the development of the decree. This indicates a comprehensive approach by the authorities to regulating the sector.
Key points of the document include the development of mechanisms for using digital assets and stablecoins in cross-border settlements. Kazakhstan seeks to provide businesses with legal channels for export-import operations, which is particularly relevant given current geopolitical and economic challenges.
Special attention is paid to legalizing operations with crypto assets. A mechanism for the voluntary disclosure of digital assets previously held on foreign unregulated platforms is provided. The authorities are encouraging the transfer of such assets to the platforms of local providers.
A powerful incentive is provided for individuals: exemption from individual income tax on income from operations with digital assets conducted through regulated Kazakh infrastructure. This should attract both retail investors and professional traders.
The decree also touches upon the mining sector. A mechanism is introduced for using associated petroleum and natural gas at fields for autonomous electricity generation. These resources can be directed towards cryptocurrency mining if they are not required for state needs. This is an effective way to monetize previously unused energy resources.
Additionally, the document provides for the development of tokenized financial instruments and the creation of a national trading blockchain infrastructure. The implementation of all initiatives will be enshrined in a separate action plan with clear deadlines and responsible executors.
Let me remind you that back in the fall of 2025, the Central Bank of Kazakhstan announced the formation of a state crypto reserve worth between $500 million and $1 billion. Thus, the country is consistently moving towards creating one of the most progressive and transparent crypto regimes in the region. In my opinion, this decree is not just a formality, but a clear signal to the global crypto community: Kazakhstan is open for business and ready to compete for capital and talent.