Kazakhstan has firmly established itself as a premier destination for business tourism in Central Asia. Anchored by modern venues like the Atakent International Exhibition Centre in Almaty and the EXPO International Exhibition Center in Astana, the country hosts a dynamic calendar of trade fairs that draw thousands of industry professionals from across the globe. These events are not just showcases; they are critical engines for economic diversification, technological transfer, and international partnership.
Here is a look at some of the largest and most significant exhibitions that define Kazakhstan’s business landscape.
Construction and Engineering: KazBuild & Aquatherm Almaty
The construction and utilities sector is arguably the most visible in Kazakhstan’s exhibition circuit. The KazBuild exhibition, alongside the concurrent Aquatherm Almaty exhibition, stands as the largest industry event in the region. Scheduled for September 2–4, 2026, in Almaty, this combined platform brings together an impressive 631 companies from 34 countries.
KazBuild focuses on building materials, interior solutions, windows, and facades, while Aquatherm Almaty covers heating, water supply, ventilation, and air conditioning. The scale is significant: the 2026 edition features a national group from Germany, collective pavilions from China, Russia, and Iran, and a substantial number of first-time exhibitors, demonstrating the continued allure of the Kazakhstani market. This event serves as a critical meeting point for developers, architects, and government officials shaping the country’s urban future.
Agriculture: KazAgro/KazFarm
Agriculture remains a vital pillar of Kazakhstan’s economy, and KazAgro/KazFarm reflects its importance. As the largest agricultural exhibition in Central Asia, the 2025 edition held in Astana attracted over 10,000 visitors and showcased 316 companies from 25 countries across an area of 20,000 square meters.
The exhibition covers crop production, livestock, and agricultural machinery, with a strong focus on innovation. A key highlight is the AgroHub: Science and Business conference, which facilitates technology transfer and investment. During the 2025 event, agreements worth over 700 million tenge were signed, alongside contracts exceeding $90 million with Belarusian partners, proving that these exhibitions are platforms for tangible economic outcomes. The next edition is scheduled for October 21–23, 2026, in Astana.
Mining and Metallurgy: Mining and Metals Central Asia
Kazakhstan’s rich mineral resources make Mining and Metals Central Asia a pivotal event for the global extractive industry. Held in Almaty alongside Kazcomak (specializing in construction and road equipment), this exhibition is the largest of its kind in the country by exhibition space and exhibitor count. The 2025 edition featured 515 companies from 30 countries.
This platform is essential for presenting innovative technologies and trends in the mining and metallurgical complex. It consistently attracts active participation from international players, including a dedicated collective stand for Russian exporters, highlighting the competitive yet collaborative nature of the regional market.
Manufacturing and Machinery: Kazakhstan Machinery Fair
To support the diversification of its economy, Kazakhstan emphasizes industrial development through events like the Kazakhstan Machinery Fair. Described as the largest international exhibition in machinery and metalworking in Central Asia, it covers everything from metalworking equipment and welding materials to robotics and additive technologies.
The 2026 edition, organized with support from the Ministry of Industry and Construction, will feature over 290 companies from 24 countries across 14 thematic sections. With 85.33% of its 3,864 visitors holding decision-making authority or influencing purchasing decisions, the fair is a highly targeted event for forging B2B connections and expanding sales geography within the region.
Oil, Gas, and Transport: KIOGE and TransLogistica
Kazakhstan’s role as a transit and energy hub is underlined by two major industry gatherings. KIOGE, the Kazakhstan International Oil & Gas Exhibition, is one of the most authoritative platforms for presenting innovations and trends in the oil and gas sector. Held biennially in Almaty, it attracts over 300 companies from 20 countries.
Complementing this is TransLogistica Kazakhstan, held in Astana. It is the largest transport and logistics exhibition in the country, drawing over 6,400 visitors. It is a key meeting point for top management from Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), the Aktau Sea Port, and major logistics operators, focusing on the critical transit corridors linking Asia and Europe.
A Platform for Domestic Enterprise: Ulttyq Ónim
While international exhibitions drive foreign investment, Kazakhstan also prioritizes its domestic producers through Ulttyq Ónim. This annual exhibition, organized by the Damu Entrepreneurship Development Fund, is the largest platform for state-supported Kazakhstani companies. The 2026 edition became the most massive in its history, featuring over 600 companies—nearly double from the previous year.
Held in Astana, Ulttyq Ónim covers food, light, and heavy industries, furniture, and construction. It serves a dual purpose: allowing the public to purchase goods directly from manufacturers at producer prices, while providing a space for panel sessions on digitalization, AI implementation, and access to financing for small and medium-sized businesses.
The exhibition industry in Kazakhstan is a mirror of the nation’s economic strategy. From the industrial halls of Atakent in Almaty to the futuristic EXPO center in Astana, these events are sophisticated platforms for knowledge exchange and deal-making. For international companies looking to enter the Central Asian market, or for local enterprises seeking to expand, these large-scale exhibitions remain the most effective gateway to the region’s business community.
