BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 26. Kazakhstan is the third-largest trade and economic partner of Kyrgyzstan after Russia and China, Deputy Economic Minister of Kyrgyzstan Iskender Asylkulov said during a Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan Business Forum, held in Bishkek, Trend reports.
He noted that the trade turnover between the two countries increased by 36.1 percent in the period from 2018 through 2022. The exports grew by 62.1 percent, while imports increased by 24.4 percent
"Today, the contacts between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are developing dynamically, stimulating active business interaction. Most Kazakh businessmen are aware of the attractiveness of Kyrgyzstan for investment. This includes a liberal legal framework, qualified and affordable workforce, low tax rates, low cost of electricity, visa-free regime, trade hub and transport corridors, key trade junctions, and a developed financial market," Asylkulov said.
The Kyrgyz-Kazakh business forum was held in Bishkek on May 25. The business representatives of both countries discussed the development of bilateral cooperation and the establishment of close business relationships during the event.
Within the framework of the business forum, entrepreneurs signed contracts totaling $35 million. Agreements were signed for the supply of metal structures, diesel generators, fruit and vegetable products, and confectionery products.