President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hosted Nurlan Smagulov, the founder of Astana Motors on January 25, for a detailed discussion on the company's performance and ongoing industrial projects aimed at advancing the automotive industry in Kazakhstan.

During the meeting, Smagulov shared key highlights, revealing that Astana Motors' financial contributions to local and republican budgets amounted to KZT 140bn ($312mn) in taxes, duties, fees, and other obligatory payments for the year 2023. The company currently provides employment to 6,489 individuals, with 1,615 engaged in production roles.

The Hyundai Trans Kazakhstan and Hyundai Trans Almaty plants reported a successful year, producing 48,857 passenger cars and 981 commercial vehicles in the previous year.

Of significant importance is the ongoing construction of the multi-brand plant, Astana Motors Manufacturing Kazakhstan. This facility is set to produce Chery, GWM (Haval), and Changan cars, with an annual capacity of 90,000 units. The production plan aims for 40% of the volume to be allocated for the domestic market and 60% for export. Construction is scheduled for completion in February 2025. Astana Motors envisions a global shift to 100% small-scale production with body welding and painting (CKD) by 2027.

President Tokayev underscored the priority of industrial policy, particularly in the development of the manufacturing sector, including the automotive industry.

Source: https://www.akorda.kz