Kazakhstan Emerges as Belgium’s Largest Trading Partner in Central Asia: Tokayev
Astana, The Gulf Observer: President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has stated that Kazakhstan is Belgium’s largest trading partner in Central Asia, highlighting the growing economic ties between the two countries and the potential for further expanding bilateral trade and investment.
Tokayev made these remarks during the fourth meeting of the Kazakhstan-Belgium Business Council, attended by King Philippe of Belgium and Queen Mathilde, who are on a state visit to Kazakhstan.
The Kazakh president welcomed the Belgian royal couple and said their participation in the meeting reflected the longstanding friendship between the two countries and their shared determination to elevate bilateral relations to a new level.
He noted that Belgium ranks among the ten largest investors in Kazakhstan’s economy, with Belgian companies investing more than US$15 billion in the country over the past two decades.
According to Tokayev, more than 100 Belgian enterprises and joint ventures are operating in Kazakhstan across a range of sectors, including agribusiness, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced technologies and energy. These include prominent Belgian companies such as Jan De Nul, Sarens and Ahlers.
The president also highlighted the positive momentum in bilateral trade, noting that trade between the two countries increased by nearly 10 percent during the first eight months of 2026.
Tokayev acknowledged King Philippe’s personal contribution to strengthening economic relations, recalling that the Belgian monarch had led a trade mission to Kazakhstan 16 years ago, helping establish a strong foundation for sustained business-to-business cooperation.
He expressed confidence that Kazakhstan and Belgium could further expand their partnership by exploring untapped opportunities and strengthening engagement between their business communities.
The meeting underscored the importance of continued cooperation in trade, investment and other economic sectors, as both countries seek to translate their longstanding diplomatic friendship into tangible economic benefits.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde arrived in Kazakhstan at the invitation of President Tokayev for a state visit from October 11 to 14, 2026. The visit marks the first state visit to Kazakhstan by a reigning Belgian monarch and is aimed at strengthening political, economic and cultural relations between the two countries.
The visit reflects the growing importance of Kazakhstan as an economic partner for Belgium in Central Asia and provides fresh momentum for expanding bilateral cooperation.
