NEWS

Edward’s East Strategies has prepared monthly monitors of regulatory initiatives and personnel changes in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Belarus  within the period November 15 – December 15, 2024.

In Kazakhstan, a series of partnership agreements with the Russian Federation were adopted during the reviewed period, and agreements on free trade with Iran and Singapore were ratified. In particular, the Interregional and Cross-Border Cooperation Program for 2024-2026 was approved between Russia and Kazakhstan, and the leaders of the two countries issued a joint statement on deepening strategic partnership in the context of a new global order. Additionally, a draft on the introduction of mandatory labeling and a traceability system for light industry goods was published for regulatory impact analysis. In the sphere of environmental legislation, an action plan for the implementation of the Concept for Kazakhstan’s transition to a “green economy” for 2024-2030 was approved.

In Uzbekistan, the composition of the Cabinet of Ministers was approved after the recent parliamentary elections, and amendments related to the country’s accession to the WTO were adopted. Moreover, changes were made to the customs legislation, the Concept of Transparency for the transition to a “green” economy was approved, and a new edition of the law “On Railway Transport” was adopted.

In Kyrgyzstan, a law was published that establishes the status of “Digital Nomad” for foreign citizens working in high-tech sectors. A law was also signed that establishes the indefinite nature of tax and insurance contribution preferences for Tech Parks. Furthermore, regulatory documents were developed to address issues related to electronic trade goods and to simplify customs procedures. In terms of personnel changes, Akylbek Japarov has left his post as head of the Cabinet of Ministers and the Presidential Administration. Adylbek Kasymaliev is temporarily taking over his position.

In Belarus, during the reviewed period, significant changes occurred in civil legislation. Amendments to the Civil Code came into force, improving the institution of civil liability and general contract norms. Additionally, the rules for real estate registration have changed, with the state registration act effectively becoming the sole basis for property rights and other real rights. A procedure for opening branches of foreign companies was also established (previously, companies could only conduct business in the country by establishing a separate legal entity). Significant regulatory changes may affect the pharmaceutical sector—a published draft for the codification of medical legislation contains fundamental innovations related to the circulation and production of pharmaceutical products.

The reviews also include other normative legal acts and personnel changes of interest to businesses.