OECD Investment Policy Reviews: Kazakhstan 2017
This review, which was prepared in response to Kazakhstan's 2012 request to adhere to the Declaration on International Investment and Multinational Enterprises (OECD Declaration), analyses the general framework for investment as well as most recent reforms, and shows where further efforts are necessary. It assesses Kazakhstan’s ability to comply with the principles of openness, transparency and non-discrimination and its policy convergence with the OECD Declaration, including responsible business conduct practices. Capitalising on the OECD Policy Framework for Investment, this review studies other policy areas that are of key relevance to investment such as SME policy, infrastructure development, trade policy as well as anti-corruption efforts. Since the first review of Kazakhstan, in 2012, the authorities have made strides in opening the country to international investment and in improving the policy framework for investment as part of their efforts to diversify the economy to avoid continued overreliance on oil. Additional policy measures are nevertheless required to create a stimulating environment for investment if the government wants to fulfil its goal of economic diversification and sustainable development.
Responsible business conduct in Kazakhstan and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Responsible business conduct (RBC) is an important part of the investment climate and is increasingly integrated within policies aimed at attracting better quality investment and enhancing sustainable development. In line with global trends, RBC has also emerged as an important topic in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan’s adherence to the Declaration, and, in particular, the establishment of a National Contact Point for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, is an opportunity to further promote RBC principles and standards, both within the government and with the wider public, and to further clarify and set out the government’s expectations on RBC.