Kazakhstan has taken a significant step in digital innovation with the launch of the Solana Economic Zone Kazakhstan (SEZ KZ), the first Web3-focused economic zone in Central Asia.
This new initiative, which operates on the Solana blockchain and is supported by the Solana Foundation, underscores Kazakhstan’s strategic emphasis on blockchain technology and its impact on the nation’s digital economy.
The launch was announced at a formal event in Astana, coinciding with the upcoming 2025 Astana International Forum. The event brought together a diverse range of participants, including government leaders, blockchain developers, and global investors.
The Solana Foundation has signed an MOU with Kazakhstan’s MDAI following the launch of the first Solana Economic Zone in Central Asia
This partnership will advance tokenized capital markets, crypto developer education, and resources for Solana startups based in the region. pic.twitter.com/TgR0SDN66H
— Solana (@solana) June 21, 2025
SEZ KZ Aims to Foster Tokenized Assets and Developer Training Across Kazakhstan
According to the official press release, SEZ KZ is established as a testing ground for innovative Web3 projects. It aims to facilitate the development and implementation of blockchain applications while promoting Kazakhstani tech ventures on a global scale.
Officials have noted that this model takes cues from successful digital hubs like Dubai’s DMCC Crypto Centre, while also being tailored to cater to local market demands.
Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry, articulated the broader vision of the initiative, stating, “We are committed to building a resilient and competitive digital environment. Projects like the Solana Economic Zone allow us to test and implement next-generation solutions — from asset tokenization to cultivating Web3 talent.”
The event showcased various use cases from global startups working across sectors including energy, finance, agritech, and gaming. Discussions included opportunities for tokenizing traditional assets like real estate, gold, and securities.
A strategic memorandum was executed among key stakeholders, outlining several major initiatives, including a pilot program for tokenized capital markets, talent development, and startup support.
A pilot collaboration with the Astana International Exchange (AIX), the Solana Foundation, Jupiter, and Intebix is set to evaluate how tokenized financial instruments can be integrated into Kazakhstan’s capital markets infrastructure.
On the educational front, the Ministry and Solana Foundation unveiled a nationwide initiative focused on Rust programming and blockchain engineering. This program aims to partner with local universities and Astana Hub to equip developers with essential Web3 skills.
To attract international blockchain firms, the ministry intends to collaborate with Forma to establish support schemes for foreign startups, offering access to infrastructure, legal counsel, and incentives designed to enhance Kazakhstan’s appeal for digital asset enterprises.
The establishment of SEZ KZ signals Kazakhstan’s strong commitment to becoming a leader in digital innovation in Central Asia. The government views Web3 and blockchain technologies as vital components of its broader strategy for achieving digital sovereignty.
The administration continues to invest in frameworks that support emerging technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence, as part of a long-term vision for economic modernization and digital independence.
Kazakhstan Advances Crypto Innovation with “CryptoCity” Pilot Zone
In addition, Kazakhstan recently announced its intention to further its crypto ambitions by launching “CryptoCity,” a pilot zone where cryptocurrencies can be utilized for daily transactions.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev presented this initiative at the Astana International Forum 2025, describing it as a regulated sandbox for exploring real-world cryptocurrency adoption.
“We are planning to create a pioneering pilot zone called CryptoCity where cryptocurrencies might be used for purchasing goods, services, and even beyond,” he declared.
Although detailed plans are still under wraps, the CryptoCity initiative illustrates Kazakhstan’s escalating commitment to integrating crypto into its national strategy. The government is actively fostering an environment that attracts blockchain projects and new use cases beyond traditional mining.
The country’s crypto infrastructure has experienced rapid growth, with registrations of 415,000 mining rigs since 2023, the issuance of 84 licenses, and accreditation of five mining pools.
Trading volumes at the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Kazakhstan’s regulated hub for digital assets, surged from $324 million in 2023 to $1.4 billion in 2024.
Kazakhstan eyes crypto dominance in Central Asia with new mining rules and AIFC oversight. #kazakhstan #cryptomining #asia https://t.co/XraP2vn6Jj
— Finance Newso.com (@Finance Newso) May 14, 2025
Furthermore, authorities are looking to expand cryptocurrency regulations beyond the AIFC. Vice Minister Kanysh Tuleushin indicated that the government is collaborating with the National Bank to create a more comprehensive legal framework.
Kazakhstan is exploring the launch of crypto banks as part of its broader push to build a sustainable and regulated digital asset ecosystem. #Kazakhstan #Bitcoin https://t.co/egghK92tqY
— Finance Newso.com (@Finance Newso) April 30, 2025
Additionally, the country is in the process of developing a central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital tenge, with a launch anticipated this year.
The interest in blockchain adoption is also growing regionally, with neighboring countries like Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan advancing their own initiatives, including new partnerships with Binance.
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