Kazakhstan accounts for 62% of Central Asia's $290.8bn external debt

June 18, 2026 at 05:13 PM1 min

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Kazakhstan remains the largest debtor in Central Asia, with its external debt reaching $181.8 billion, according to Ranking.kz. The country accounts for over 62% of the region's total external debt of $290.8 billion, which includes Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

Regional Debt Breakdown

The total external debt of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan reached $290.8 billion by the end of 2025, according to data from the CIS Statistical Committee. Kazakhstan alone accounts for $181.8 billion, or 62.5% of the regional total. Uzbekistan follows with a significantly smaller share, though exact figures were not disclosed.

Kazakhstan's Debt Profile

Kazakhstan's external debt has grown steadily, driven by corporate borrowing and government obligations. The $181.8 billion figure represents a substantial portion of the country's GDP, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability. The National Bank of Kazakhstan has previously flagged external debt as a key risk to economic stability.

Alcohol Consumption Rankings

Kazakhstan leads Central Asia in alcohol consumption, with residents over 15 consuming over five liters of pure alcohol annually, according to a recent ranking. Deputies have responded to the report, which places Kazakhstan as the top drinking country in the region.

Kazakhstan-Austria Trade Dominance

Kazakhstan accounts for over 80% of Austria's trade turnover with Central Asia, as stated during a meeting between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs. This highlights Kazakhstan's role as Austria's main economic partner in the region.