Kazakhstan

Project overview

Kazakhstan's aquatic food systems are evolving rapidly, with aquaculture increasingly recognized for its potential to support food security, economic growth and environmental sustainability. However, the sector remains underdeveloped due to longstanding structural constraints.

Following the transition to a market economy, fisheries production declined sharply, weakening institutions, investment and technical capacity. Despite recent growth in aquaculture, weak governance, insufficient technical expertise, and restricted access to quality inputs limit development.

Rising demand for fish products, driven by population and income growth, adds further pressure on natural resources. Without sustainable practices, expansion risks increasing water stress, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation.

The Government of Kazakhstan has prioritized the sector through the Fisheries Development Programme (2021–2030), aiming to significantly scale up production. Supporting the Government's efforts, this project addresses critical gaps in governance, technical capacity and sustainability, ensuring that growth in aquatic food systems is environmentally sound, climate-resilient and inclusive.

Our approach

The project promotes a transition towards sustainable, resilient and inclusive aquatic food systems through a systems-based approach aligned with the FSIP.

It strengthens governance frameworks by integrating ecosystem-based approaches into policies, regulatory systems, and planning processes, enabling evidence-based, climate-informed decision-making.

At the institutional level, the project enhances capacity for aquatic animal health management, biosecurity and data systems, ensuring that production systems are resilient to environmental and disease risks.

At the production and value chain levels, the project supports climate-smart aquaculture practices, including improved feed and seed systems, water-efficient technologies, and species diversification. Demonstration sites and best practices will support scaling of sustainable production models.

The project also promotes enterprise development and private-sector engagement by improving access to finance, strengthening business planning, and enhancing value chains.

Knowledge generation and dissemination are central, ensuring that lessons learned contribute to the national and regional transformation of aquatic food systems. The project also prioritizes inclusion, supporting small and medium enterprises and ensuring gender-responsive participation and benefits.

Sites

Zhetysu and Almaty regions (with specific sites and aquatic systems targeted for aquaculture and culture-based fisheries development).