Study Tour for Experience Exchange: Local Development and Investments

From 15 to 18 April 2026, a study tour for representatives of local self-government bodies of the Kyrgyz Republic was organized to the cities of Shymkent and Turkestan in the Republic of Kazakhstan on the topic of local economic development and investment attraction.

The visit was organized by the Development Policy Institute within the framework of the “Effective Governance for Economic Development” (EGED) Programme, financed by the Government of the United Kingdom, with the participation of the Partnership Programme “For the Development of Local Self-Government in the Kyrgyz Republic,” implemented with the support of the Government of Switzerland.

The purpose of the tour was to study Kazakhstan’s successful experience in investment policy, entrepreneurship support, public-private partnerships, and tourism development for further application of best practices in Kyrgyzstan.

During the visit, participants explored the following sites:

1. Shymkent:
   1. Shymkent Invest organization and the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “ATAMEKEN” in Shymkent – regional investment policy and investor support mechanisms.
   2. Manufacturing enterprises: Bal Tekstil, Balabi Tekstil, Qazalpack, Eurocrystal, ASIA TRAFO, Alsera KZ.
   3. Urban infrastructure and tourism sites: Citadel, Seitzhan Kari Mosque.
2. Turkestan:
   1. National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “ATAMEKEN” in Turkestan Region – introduction to the region’s investment potential.
   2. Small industrial park and resident enterprises: BNK Irrigation, Aqniet Holding.
   3. Tourism attractions: Mausoleum, Altyn Samruk Museum, Flying Theatre, and other landmarks.

“We expect this tour to contribute to strengthening interregional cooperation, expanding business ties, and enhancing the competencies of local government representatives in territorial economic development. The first step has already been made – during the visit, the Nookat Entrepreneurs Association and the At-Bashy District Business Association signed memorandums of cooperation with the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs ‘ATAMEKEN’ in Shymkent”, said Nadezhda Dobretsova, Chairperson of the Development Policy Institute.

As a result of the visit, participants will study and introduce new effective mechanisms and approaches for attracting investments, supporting businesses, creating jobs, and developing the tourism potential of their regions.