Tokayev orders revisions to the Tax Code: 'This is not sacred scripture'

Tengrinews.kz — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has instructed the government to make adjustments to Kazakhstan’s new Tax Code. He made the statement during the fifth session of the National Kurultai in Kyzylorda.
According to the President, the economy and businesses are entering a new phase under updated tax rules, and both the government and regional administrations must ensure a smooth and conflict-free transition.

“It is necessary to carefully examine all reasonable and constructive proposals from the public regarding the application of the new Tax Code and, if needed, make adjustments. After all, the Tax Code is not sacred scripture — it can and should be amended when necessary,” Tokayev said.

It is worth noting that Kazakhstan’s new Tax Code came into force on January 1, 2026.
One of the most sensitive changes was the increase in the value-added tax (VAT) rate, which rose from 12 percent to 16 percent.
At the same time, the threshold for mandatory VAT registration was raised from 15 million to 40 million tenge.
The fifth session of the National Kurultai is currently taking place in Kyzylorda. As previously announced by Presidential Assistant and Press Secretary Ruslan Zheldibay, President Tokayev is expected to outline key priorities for Kazakhstan’s future development and address pressing social issues during his speech.
Read also: Tokayev proposes a new name for Kazakhstan’s Parliament