by Maksat Turlubaev – Head of the Bureau of National statistics, Agency for Strategic planning and reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan 

The year 2025 marks a milestone for the global statistical community. Several landmark events bring together statisticians, researchers, and analysts from around the world in celebration of the power of data.

One of the most notable occasions is the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Over the past eight decades, FAO has become a cornerstone of global efforts to advance food security, sustainable agriculture, responsible natural resource management, and rural development. Through its work, millions have been empowered to improve nutrition, enhance agricultural productivity, and build sustainable food systems grounded in data and evidence-based decision-making.

At the heart of these efforts lies statistics – the foundation of every analysis, forecast, and policy decision. Whether addressing hunger, adapting agriculture to climate change, or designing farmer support programs, reliable statistics are essential. They reveal the true state of affairs, measure the impact of interventions, and guide strategic planning for the future.

In 2025, the world will also celebrate World Statistics Day on October 20, an event held every five years to underscore the importance of trustworthy data in modern society. For Kazakhstan, this year holds special significance as it marks the 105th anniversary of its national statistical system.

These three anniversaries – FAO's 80th, World Statistics Day, and Kazakhstan's 105th year of official statistics – offer a powerful reminder of the role statistics play in shaping inclusive, sustainable development. They highlight the value of data in building fair economies, informing public policy, and improving lives.

Agricultural Census – A Clear Picture of Kazakhstan’s Agricultural Sector

Another defining moment for Kazakhstan in 2025 is the launch of the National Agricultural Census—the largest statistical initiative of the decade. This comprehensive census will provide an updated and detailed portrait of the agricultural sector, collecting comparable data on producers, land use, livestock, and other vital resources.

Covering all agricultural producers - from large agricultural holdings to individual farmers and private households - the census will gather information on land, crops, livestock, equipment, labor, and other key resources. These figures are not just numbers; they are the foundation for strategic decisions in agriculture, food security, and the rational use of land and water resources.

The census results will enable the government to:

• Design more effective agricultural policies,
• Identify priority areas for investment,
• Develop targeted subsidies and support programs for farmers.

At the regional level, the data will facilitate comparative analysis, identify growth opportunities, and inform locally tailored development strategies. For researchers and international partners, the census will serve as a rich source of harmonized, high-quality data.

FAO’s partnership is instrumental in this endeavor. Its regional office and experts provide methodological and technical support, share global best practices, and help align Kazakhstan’s approaches with international standards. FAO also advises on data confidentiality, quality assurance, and public communication, enhancing both the reliability and transparency of the census. This collaboration strengthens public trust and reinforces Kazakhstan’s reputation as a country committed to statistical excellence.

Innovation and digitalization in statistics

Modern statistics are inseparable from technology. Kazakhstan is actively embracing digital tools to make data collection and processing faster, more accurate, and more user-friendly.

In 2023, Kazakhstan introduced satellite-based yield forecasting for grain crops—an innovation that marked a new chapter in statistical practice.

To improve transparency and accessibility, the Bureau launched an interactive agricultural dashboard on stat.gov.kz .

This tool presents key indicators—such as total production, physical volume index, agriculture’s share of GDP, employment, and output structure—visually and interactively. It is designed for everyone, from researchers to farmers, making data more engaging and actionable.

The dashboard transforms raw statistics into a dynamic planning tool. Users can compare regions, monitor trends, and make informed decisions based on real data.

The power of statistics lies in trust and relevance

Statistics are powerful when they are understandable, accessible, and trustworthy. In a year that celebrates FAO’s 80th anniversary, World Statistics Day, and Kazakhstan’s 105 years of statistical service, the agricultural census stands as a testament to how data can serve society.

It not only captures the current state of agriculture but also provides a strategic resource for shaping future policies.

The Bureau of National Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan congratulates all colleagues, partners, and friends around the world on these significant milestones. We express our sincere gratitude to FAO for its enduring support, knowledge sharing, and contribution to strengthening Kazakhstan's statistical capacity.

May our data be accurate, our decisions informed, and our joint efforts make a lasting contribution to a sustainable future.

Mr Maksat Turlubayev has served as Head of the Bureau of National Statistics since 2023. He has dedicated his entire professional career to public service, previously holding various positions in local and central government agencies, as well as in the Administration of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.