Kazakhstan, a country rich in natural resources, plays a significant role in the global export market. Let’s explore the 10 largest exports of Kazakhstan, which contribute greatly to its economy.
1. Mineral Fuels and Oils
Mineral fuels and oils are by far the most important export for Kazakhstan. This category includes crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum products. In 2023, these exports were worth about $46.4 billion, making up almost 59% of Kazakhstan’s total exports. Kazakhstan is the 10th largest oil exporter in the world, showing how important this sector is for the country.
2. Ores, Slag, and Ash
The second largest export category for Kazakhstan is ores, slag, and ash. These materials, often used in metal production, were valued at $5 billion in 2023. This represents about 6.3% of Kazakhstan’s total exports. The country is rich in various minerals, making this a key part of its export economy.
3. Inorganic Chemicals
Inorganic chemicals, including radioactive chemical elements, are the third largest export. This category was worth $4.3 billion in 2023, accounting for 5.5% of total exports. Kazakhstan is actually the world’s biggest exporter of radioactive chemicals, showing its strength in this area.
4. Iron and Steel
Iron and steel exports are equally important, also valued at $4.3 billion in 2023. This makes up another 5.5% of Kazakhstan’s total exports. The country produces various iron and steel products, contributing to its industrial export sector.
5. Copper
Copper is the fifth largest export from Kazakhstan. In 2023, copper exports were worth $3.2 billion, representing 4.1% of total exports. This includes both refined copper and copper ores.
6. Cereals
Agricultural exports are also significant for Kazakhstan, with cereals being the sixth largest export category. Cereal exports, mainly wheat, were valued at $2.2 billion in 2023, making up 2.8% of total exports. Kazakhstan is known for its vast wheat fields and is an important grain exporter.
7. Machinery Including Computers
Moving away from raw materials, machinery including computers is the seventh largest export category. These exports were worth $1.8 billion in 2023, accounting for 2.3% of total exports. This shows Kazakhstan’s growing capacity in manufacturing and technology sectors.
8. Electrical Machinery and Equipment
Electrical machinery and equipment form the eighth largest export category. These exports were valued at $1.2 billion in 2023, representing 1.5% of total exports. This category includes various electronic products and components.
9. Gems and Precious Metals
Gems and precious metals, including gold, are the ninth largest export. This category was worth $1.1 billion in 2023, making up 1.4% of total exports. Gold is a particularly important part of this category.
10. Salt, Sulphur, Stone, and Cement
The tenth largest export category is salt, sulphur, stone, and cement. These exports were valued at $619.4 million in 2023, accounting for 0.8% of total exports. This category includes various minerals and construction materials.