Focus on Export: Outcomes of the Kazakhstan–Slovakia Business Forum
The Export Credit Agency of Kazakhstan (ECA) took part in the Kazakhstan–Slovakia Business Forum, held as part of the official visit of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico to Astana.
Chairman of the Management Board of ECA, Allen Chaizhunusov, emphasized the importance of maintaining a sustainable intergovernmental dialogue and outlined new areas for growth in Kazakhstan–Slovakia economic relations in the field of exports. He noted that the European market holds particular interest for Kazakhstan, with Slovakia viewed as a key partner for trade integration with the European Union. In 2023–2024, ECA supported exporters with contracts totaling €340 million in the EU market.
ECA Deputy Chairwoman Madina Erzhanova also addressed the forum, presenting state support measures for exporters and confirming ECA’s readiness to assist Slovak investors in implementing export-oriented projects in Kazakhstan.
"Today we had the opportunity to discuss with our colleagues the prospects for production localization, export deliveries, and expanding cooperation in specific sectors. Our portfolio already includes cases of supported Kazakhstani exports to Slovakia, and we hope to significantly increase the number of such projects. We have all the necessary resources to provide support and are fully prepared to assist projects with Slovak capital," said Madina Erzhanova.
The forum brought together representatives of government bodies, development institutions, and business communities from both Kazakhstan and Slovakia. Among the attendees was ECA’s counterpart — the Export-Import Bank of Slovakia (Eximbank SR). On the sidelines of the forum, the parties identified priority sectors for joint projects that would allow for more effective risk management in export operations.
It is worth noting that on October 16, 2024, in Hamburg, during the annual meeting of the Berne Union, ECA and Eximbank SR signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This strategic document is aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in funding, insurance, underwriting, export financing and guarantees, as well as the exchange of experience and analytical insights on regional markets.
The final part of the forum was held in B2B and B2G formats. Business representatives from both countries discussed investment opportunities, financing conditions, and potential commercial agreements. The focus was on project profitability analysis and optimization of financial flows.
