Within the framework of the International Forum in Astana, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin met with the Minister of Internal and Foreign Trade of Serbia Jagoda Lazarević. At the meeting, the parties emphasized the sustainable dynamics of bilateral cooperation, laid down at the level of leaders of the two countries.
Kazakhstan considers Serbia to be an important trade partner in Central Europe. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic relations: according to the results of 2024, the trade turnover between the countries amounted to 100 million USD, which is an increase of 9.7%. At the same time, Kazakhstan's exports grew by 39.4%. In January-March 2025. the growth of mutual trade is 30%.
Kazakhstan expressed readiness to expand the range of goods exported to Serbia, such as polypropylene, mineral fertilizers and confectionery.
The participants of the meeting noted the importance of using the potential of the intergovernmental commission and the business council, as well as the implementation of key bilateral projects, in particular the launch of direct flights between Astana and Belgrade. The Kazakh airline SCAT has already begun developing the route, and Kazakhstan is counting on the support of the Serbian side, including the possibility of using the fifth degree of freedom.
It was previously reported that direct flights between the capitals of Kazakhstan and Serbia will be opened by the end of 2025.
The Kazakh side invited Serbian companies to actively participate in investment projects, including in the field of agro-processing and pharmaceuticals, noting the high export potential of the Serbian industry.
The day before, on the sidelines of the AIF, Zhumangarin met with Croatian Minister of Economy Ante Šušnjar. The parties discussed further strengthening bilateral relations and economic cooperation, primarily in the energy sector. The parties also expressed interest in developing cooperation in the field of infrastructure projects, the IT sector, agriculture and the pharmaceutical industry.