China Construction Bank seeks Kazakh banking licence for investment projects
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
China Construction Bank has expressed interest in obtaining a banking licence in Kazakhstan to expand financing for investment projects, ARDFM head Madina Abylkasymova said on August 24, 2026. The bank already operates in the Astana International Financial Centre through a subsidiary but needs a domestic licence to broaden lending. Kazakh companies show strong demand for Chinese financing, she added.
Key Facts
- China Construction Bank already operates in Kazakhstan through a subsidiary registered in the Astana International Financial Centre.
- ICBC increased its credit portfolio and financing volumes in Kazakhstan by 500 billion tenge over the past two years.
- Three Chinese banks currently operate in Kazakhstan: ICBC, Bank of China, and China CITIC Bank, a major shareholder of Altyn Bank.
- Banks operating in the AIFC cannot directly work with deposits of individuals and businesses in the national currency.
Licence Application
China Construction Bank has expressed strong interest in expanding its lending activities and participating in additional investment projects in Kazakhstan. During a recent visit to China with the National Bank, bank representatives said they see significant prospects in expanding financing for various projects in Kazakhstan. To do so, the bank needs a licence outside the AIFC, in Kazakhstan's domestic jurisdiction. ARDFM head Madina Abylkasymova said the regulator is ready to assist China Construction Bank in obtaining the licence, as Kazakhstan welcomes new investment.
Existing Chinese Banks
Three Chinese banks already operate in Kazakhstan: ICBC, Bank of China, and China CITIC Bank, which is a major shareholder of Altyn Bank. These banks hold substantial portfolios focused on financing joint projects and trade finance in Kazakhstan. ICBC acts as a clearing bank for yuan transactions and increased its credit portfolio and financing volumes by 500 billion tenge over the past two years. Kazakh companies show strong demand for panda bond placements and financing from Asian markets, where funding costs are significantly lower.
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China Construction Bank seeks Kazakh banking licence for investment projects
