On 8th September, Kazakhstani President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address. The President presented a series of political and economic reform proposals, centered around economic modernization, digitalization, institutional change and supporting Kazakhstan’s long-term resilience.

Devoting much of his address to the need to develop Kazakhstan’s tech and digital capabilities, Tokayev announced measures to support the wide-scale introduction of AI across the economy. Key measures include the adoption of a Digital Code, which will define priorities such as AI, the platform economy, big data and digital infrastructure. Tokayev also announced the establishment of a Ministry of AI and Digital Development.

Discussing other priority areas such as logistics, finance, the pharmaceutical sector, as well as water and land resources, Tokayev announced plans for a new banking law and creating a strategic cryptocurrency reserve. He also proposed establishing air traffic hubs that would be integrated into global supply chains and streamlining regulation impacting express cargo delivery. He urged shoring up domestic pharmaceutical production and announced several initiatives aimed at ensuring the sustainable use of water and other natural resources.

In power since 2019, Tokayev proposed a switch from the current bicameral legislative system to a unicameral parliament, with a possible constitutional referendum to confirm the changes in 2027. The President also aims to introduce a fully proportional parliamentary election system, meaning that the next parliamentary elections would involve party lists, elevating the role of political parties in decision-making. This will likely be accompanied by the launch of new political formations and the strengthening of current parliamentary parties.