Kazakhstan labor productivity rises, purchasing power falls
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Labor productivity in Kazakhstan increased by 3.2% in 2025, according to Kapital.kz. However, real household incomes declined by 1.8% over the same period, reflecting a divergence between output and consumer welfare.
Productivity Gains
Labor productivity in Kazakhstan rose 3.2% year-on-year in 2025, driven by growth in manufacturing and mining sectors. The Bureau of National Statistics reported that output per worker reached 8.9 million tenge. The increase was supported by investments in automation and digitalization across large enterprises.
Consumer Squeeze
Despite higher productivity, real household incomes fell 1.8% in 2025, Kapital.kz reported. Inflation averaged 8.5%, outpacing nominal wage growth of 6.2%. The purchasing power decline was most acute in food and utilities, which account for over 60% of consumer spending.
Workplace Stress Survey
A survey of 13,000 employees from 117 largest companies in Kazakhstan identified workplace stress as the primary issue. HR expert Gulmira Raisova noted that while labor productivity rose 6%, real wages declined, indicating a system where employers survive at the expense of workers.
Carlsberg Kazakhstan Localization
Carlsberg Kazakhstan increased local content to 71% of raw materials, supporting job creation and technology development. The company also works to reduce its carbon footprint.
Vice Minister on Income Decline
First Vice Minister of National Economy Azamat Amrin stated that real incomes fell despite economic growth. He outlined government measures to improve financial conditions for citizens.
Four-Day Workweek Consideration
Kazakhstan's Minister of Labor and Social Protection announced that a four-day workweek system may be gradually introduced. Some professionals already work only 32 hours per week, which is expected to boost productivity and improve work-life balance.
Government Income Plan Details
The government unveiled a new three-year program to raise incomes, focusing on reducing wage gaps, curbing price growth, and creating jobs. The plan includes specific measures to address income inequality and improve purchasing power.
What's Next
The government is expected to release a revised inflation forecast next week. It remains unclear whether productivity gains will translate into higher wages without additional policy intervention.
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Kazakhstan labor productivity rises, purchasing power falls
