At the Kazynaly Kaspiy International Fish Forum held in Atyrau, achievements of Kazakhstan’s fish husbandry complex and prospects for its future development were discussed. Serik Sermagambetov, Chairman of the Fish Husbandry Committee of the Ministry of Agriculture, presented the industry's key results, investment projects, and environmental initiatives.
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Fish
Growth of aquaculture through government support
The implementation of the state programme for fish husbandry development until 2030 and the adoption of the Law on Aquaculture have stimulated rapid industry growth. The number of fish farming enterprises has quadrupled in recent years, reaching 700, while annual production of valuable fish species, including sturgeon, salmon, and carp, has reached approximately 26,000 tonnes.
Investment incentives and major projects
To attract investors, the government introduced additional support measures, including the allocation of water body sections of international and national significance without competitive procedures for aquaculture projects. More than 40 investment projects worth around 60 billion tenge are currently being implemented. One of the largest is Organic Fish LLC’s sea trout farming project in the Caspian Sea, which uses Norwegian technology and is expected to produce 5,000 tonnes annually.
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Fishing
Strengthening international cooperation
International collaboration remains a priority for the sector. Kazakhstan is working with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to introduce modern technologies, improve industry legislation, and enhance specialist training.
The fish processing sector continues to grow, with 73 processing enterprises operating nationwide, including 18 in the Zhaik-Caspian basin. More than 3,000 people work in the industry, and 20 Kazakhstani enterprises have access to European Union markets. In 2025, the fish products market expanded by 15% to 108.9 thousand tonnes, while exports reached 21.1 thousand tonnes across 21 countries, including EU member states, China, and Russia.
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Fish net
Combating poaching and improving traceability
Preserving aquatic biological resources was a major topic at the forum. Authorities continue to conduct the annual Bekire environmental campaign to combat poaching. In addition, the E-fish traceability system has helped prevent the illegal circulation of nearly 2,000 tonnes of fish products.
Conservation of sturgeon and Caspian seal populations
Efforts to protect sturgeon species and the Caspian seal remain ongoing. The Atyrau Sturgeon Fish Breeding Plant has played a key role in restoring sturgeon stocks by releasing around 180 million young fish into the Caspian Sea over the past 30 years. Following modernization, the facility is expected to increase annual releases from 5 million to 7.4 million juvenile fish.
Future outlook for Kazakhstan’s fish industry
Forum participants concluded that the sustainable development of Kazakhstan’s fish industry depends on combining modern technologies, investment, and environmental stewardship. This balanced approach is expected to strengthen the country’s position in global fish markets while protecting the unique ecosystem of the Caspian Sea.