Yermek Kosherbayev: Tourism in E Kazakhstan becomes key focus for region’s economy

Akim (governor) of the East Kazakhstan region Yermek Kosherbayev discussed the achievements and prospects in the sphere of tourism at a press briefing at the Central Communications Service on Monday, Kazinform News Agency reports.

He stated that over 12.3 billion tenge was invested in the development of tourism industry in 2023, and the number of tourists who visited the region until the end of September this year increased to 370,000 people. Additionally, the volume of services rendered reached 5.9 billion tenge.

“Today, tourism is not just about vacation, it is an important driver of the region's economy. We create comfortable conditions for guests. A total of 351 accommodation facilities, including recreation centers, resorts and hotels operate in the region. We have implemented 8 major projects worth over 10 billion tenge. This shows the growing interest in East Kazakhstan among both domestic and foreign tourists,” said the governor.

The rural and ecological tourism sector is a particular focus. The village of Korobikha has seen the opening of guest houses offering tourists a chance to experience rural life. Eco-hotels, health retreats and ski resorts are also among the most popular destinations.

In order to facilitate the tourists flows, the region is working to improve its infrastructure. This includes the repair of roads, the opening of new border crossings and the expansion of roadside services. On top of that, a tourist website and mobile application, Visiteast.kz, have been launched.

“We are proud of the success of the Shygys Salburyny International Festival of Eagle Hunters. This year it was attended by 5,000 guests from six countries. This event has become a real brand of the region, popularizing national culture and the art of hunting with birds of prey. We are confident that such events will continue to attract the attention of tourists from all over the world to East Kazakhstan,” Yermek Kosherbayev added.

The growth of tourism is becoming a defining feature of the region, with a positive impact on the economy and enhanced international visibility.

Earlier, the akim highlighted the large industrial and investment projects currently implemented in the region and outlined measures to improve the environmental situation.