Latest news in Kazakhstan? September 4th, 2026

Key developments and headlines in Kazakhstan for September 4, 2026:

• Central Bank Cuts Base Interest Rate: The National Bank of Kazakhstan lowered its benchmark base rate from 16.75% to 16.25%. This marks the third consecutive cut this year, supported by annual inflation dipping below 10% (down to 9.8% in August) for the first time since early 2025. Kursiv.kz
• EPC Contract Signed for Balkhash Nuclear Power Plant: Kazakhstan officially signed the engineering, procurement, and construction contract with Russia’s Rosatom subsidiary (Atomstroyexport) to build the nation’s first commercial nuclear power facility near Lake Balkhash. The two-reactor plant is slated to deliver 2,400 MW of baseload capacity to help phase down coal reliance and power industrial expansion. The Astana Times+ 1
• Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) Expansion: Kazakhstan finalized steps to become a member state of the Digital Cooperation Organization, aligning with 24 other countries to bolster regional initiatives in artificial intelligence, digital economy development, and innovation. The Astana Times
• Autumn Military Conscription Underway: The Ministry of Defense has launched the nationwide autumn conscription campaign, drafting roughly 23,000 men aged 18 to 27 for mandatory service through December. www.interfax.kz
• Demographic Milestone: Official data released by the Bureau of National Statistics highlights that Kazakhstan’s national population has surpassed 20.6 million, led by rapid urban growth centered around Astana. The Astana Times