Kazakhstan is set to enhance the capacity of its border checkpoints, aiming to reduce wait times significantly and minimize corruption risks. Eldos Saudabayev, the acting Deputy Chairman of the State Revenue Committee (SRC) of the Kazakh Ministry of Finance, announced this at a press conference held by the Central Communications Service (CCS) on June 25. The reconstruction of all checkpoints is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
The upgraded checkpoints will increase their capacity eightfold, reducing the average wait time from two hours to 25 minutes. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to streamline border processes and reduce the likelihood of corruption.
Kazakhstan's external trade turnover with third countries increased by 0.5% to $44.6bn in 5M24. Exports reached $28.6bn, marking a 5.5% rise compared to the same period in 2023, while imports totalled $16.1bn. The Baurzhan Konysbayev checkpoint alone handles over 1,000 vehicles daily.
In 5M24, customs payments and taxes collected amounted to KZT 1.3 trillion ($2.8bn). Through improved customs administration measures, an additional KZT 62.5bn ($134mn) was collected for the budget.
The SRC has introduced an electronic queue system at automobile checkpoints, revolutionizing the border crossing process. This automated system, unique in Central Asia, saw over 480,000 vehicles pass through checkpoints on the border with third countries in five months, a 38% increase from the same period last year.
The electronic queue system has also automated the issuance of foreign permit forms at the borders with China and Uzbekistan. The process is digitized through integration with Uzbekistan's transport database, and similar efforts are underway with China. This system issues forms upon carriers’ arrival at the border, eliminating corruption risks and digitizing the process. Each form, costing KZT 3,692 ($8), is linked to a specific vehicle, preventing resale.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)