Kazakhstan and Ukraine forge stronger trade ties in 2025 agribusiness push

Kazakhstan and Ukraine have agreed to strengthen trade ties after a high-level meeting in 2025. Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin and Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Oleksandr Mishchenko discussed expanding economic cooperation, with a focus on agribusiness and bilateral trade growth. The talks covered ways to boost trade between the two countries. In 2025, their bilateral trade reached $415.8 million—a 5.4% rise from the previous year. Both sides highlighted key export sectors: Kazakhstan sends ferroalloys, fertilisers, and rice to Ukraine, while Ukraine exports chocolate, flour, confectionery, pharmaceuticals, cheese, and cottage cheese.

Agriculture emerged as a priority area for collaboration. Kazakh dairy farms are already working with Ukraine's Milk Producers Association to share expertise and improve production. Officials also agreed to revive the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, which had been inactive. The meeting concluded with plans to deepen business contacts. Both nations committed to exploring new opportunities in agribusiness and other sectors to further increase trade volumes.

The agreement sets a clear path for closer economic relations. Kazakhstan and Ukraine will now focus on implementing trade expansion plans, particularly in agriculture. The revival of the Intergovernmental Commission could also streamline future cooperation efforts.