Kazakhstan and China are advancing plans for a major cement plant in the Aktobe region, following recent coordination meetings among QazCement Industries, China’s Sinoma Cement Co Ltd under CNBM, and Kazakh investment authorities. The project, valued at US$200m, will be built in the Baiganin district and is designed to address the long-term supply shortage in western Kazakhstan, where cement demand has been largely met through imports from Russia and Iran.

The development plan outlines an initial production capacity of 1.3Mta, with a second phase intended to increase output to 2.5Mta. The plant will use locally sourced raw materials, including chalk, clay, and marl. Officials noted that this approach aligns with Kazakhstan’s national industrial development objectives and is expected to strengthen the country’s ability to supply building materials within the region.

During the construction period, the project is projected to create approximately 900 jobs. Once operational, it will provide around 250 permanent positions. Investment officials described the facility as a significant regional initiative, emphasizing its potential to enhance domestic supply stability and reduce reliance on cement imports.

According to the investment framework agreed by the partners, at least 50 per cent of the plant’s production will be allocated to Kazakhstan’s domestic market. The agreement also includes provisions for professional training and capacity building for local specialists, along with commitments to increase the participation of domestic contractors and suppliers. These measures are intended to expand industrial skills and support long-term localisation.

Construction is scheduled to start in spring 2026, with commissioning planned for the end of the same year. After the plant begins operating, the partners intend to explore export opportunities in the Caspian region, where demand for building materials continues to grow. Export expansion will be phased according to production capacity and market conditions, while domestic supply remains a priority under the investment agreement.

The Aktobe project highlights expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan and China in industrial development, particularly in key materials such as cement. It also reflects increasing production capacity across Central Asia, supported by infrastructure needs and the growth of construction markets in the region. Through combined investment, technology, and training efforts, the project aims to provide long-term economic benefits for the host region while enhancing Kazakhstan’s position as a supplier to neighboring markets.

Overall, the new plant is expected to support domestic consumption, reduce import dependence, and offer new export potential following commissioning.