The President of Kazakhstan announced the launch of an experimental zone where cryptocurrencies will be allowed for payment of goods, services, and investments.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, speaking at the Astana International Forum 2025, introduced CryptoCity, a special pilot zone planned to legalize the use of cryptocurrencies in the real economy.
The head of state emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader national digital transformation strategy. According to Tokayev, the government is ready to invest in expanding opportunities for young professionals by fostering growth in AI ecosystems and high-tech industries. The president also revealed plans to launch a world-class supercomputer to support research and innovation in Kazakhstan.
Key goals of CryptoCity include:
- promoting crypto payments in cafes, restaurants, and retail stores;
- implementing cryptocurrency payments in the real estate sector;
- attracting investments through asset tokenization;
- developing educational and research centers focused on blockchain technologies.
The initiative is supported by Zhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan. He noted that the most likely location for the project is the city of Alatau, an existing national science and technology hub. The zone will be equipped with infrastructure tailored for crypto investors, miners, and digital service providers.
The pilot phase is scheduled to launch by the end of 2025 and last approximately 12 months. The initial stage will test legal and technological frameworks. Based on pilot results, a decision will be made regarding expansion of the initiative to other regions.
Tokayev expressed hope that the launch of CryptoCity will become a significant step toward boosting Kazakhstan’s investment appeal. This aligns with earlier statements by Kanysh Tuleushin, First Vice Minister of Digital Development, who promoted the country as a leading crypto hub in Central Asia.
Kazakhstan already has a legal mining market and comprehensive regulation of digital assets.
