The Astana Times
ASTANA—Creative Industries Alliance Qazaqstan (CIAQ) and Nazarbayev University Research and Innovation System (NURIS) hosted a panel discussion on Dec. 11 in Astana. The discussions focused on investment opportunities in Kazakhstan’s creative sector. Entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers addressed pressing issues and explored solutions to boost the industry’s growth.
Creative industries represent a dynamically growing segment of the economy, distinct from traditional sectors such as mining, manufacturing and agriculture. In these industries, value is generated through intellectual property, ideas and concepts. However, the business model is relatively new for Kazakhstan and often requires clarification for investors, authorities and development institutions.
Creative industries in Kazakhstan face significant challenges, including a lack of investment and limited access to capital.
The event also included a panel discussion from investors’ perspectives, where the speakers explored several issues, including why there is still a lack of active investment in creative industries, what criteria and investment volumes are being considered, and what risks are perceived in the sector. The panel featured investors, representatives from international and local development institutions, and state and municipal authorities.
“Creative industries hold significant potential in Kazakhstan, which is driven by the abundance of creative and talented young people in the country. However, one critical element is missing: sufficient financial support and effective mechanisms to stimulate and develop the sector. Addressing these gaps is essential, and it is hoped that both the government and the private sector will work collaboratively to achieve these goals. With the proper measures, the creative industry could become a key export-oriented sector for Kazakhstan,” said Ruslan Rakymbai of Quest Ventures Central Asia, the regional branch of the Singapore-based venture capital firm.
