Mid-Year Review

Posted on: 13/07/2015 in: Export, Opportunities for SMEs, Recent Developments

Shocking though it may seem (especially to those over 35 for whom time passes at double speed!) , we’re now over half way through 2015 and it’s a good time to review what’s happening with regard to market conditions in Kazakhstan and review the latest opportunities for SMEs looking to export their technologies, goods and/or services, either as first time exporters or seasoned exporters looking to new markets.

Are there still opportunities to make money by exporting to Kazakhstan?

The oil price continues to remain at a low level – at around $52 a barrel, it’s slightly higher than the price at the beginning of the year, but it’s still way below the price it was bringing a 12-18 months ago. What’s more, it looks as though it will stay that way for some time.

What does this mean for potential to exports to Kazakhstan?

If you’re a UK SME owner looking for an opportunity and might be able to help local Kazakh businesses, there is still a lot of potential in the market place. British innovation in the form of new technologies and products are always sought after abroad and nowhere is this more true than in Kazakhstan. Whilst belts need to be tightened to preserve profit margins, companies remain open to investment into means of reducing operating costs, improving productivity, increasing efficiency or bettering health and safety provision.

Most companies, let alone SMEs don’t have the resource to be in Kazakhstan, to have an overseas branch or office. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t take advantage of our network of contacts. Kazopp has built up a trusted network of people and companies in Kazakhstan over the last two decades, making it easy for us to help you to find and work with the right people with minimum fuss.

Further encouragement for potential exporters

In June, the government of Kazakhstan confirmed it was expanding the number of countries included in the trial visa-free scheme, begun in July last year and also extended the scheme until December 31st, 2017. The UK was one of the original countries covered by the scheme  and the Kazakh government made it clear that it hoped the step would further improve a favorable visa and investment regime and encourage visitors to major international events, like EXPO 2017, due to take place in the capital, Astana.*

If you are interested in finding out more about current opportunities in Kazakhstan for UK SMEs, please get in contact.

 

*Source: The Astana Times