Kazakhstan ranked 75th in the international Best Countries 2026 ranking, prepared by experts from WPP, BAV, and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. The study covered 85 countries, accounting for approximately 93% of the global economy, and was based on an assessment of 73 characteristics grouped into 10 categories, Forbes.kz reports.
Kazakhstan received the highest score in the "Openness for Business" category, ranking 38th. Experts noted the country's role as the largest economy in Central Asia, an important energy supplier, and a transportation link between Europe and Asia.
Analytical Commentary
Kazakhstan's result reflects its relatively strong position in Central Asia, primarily due to its economic scale, natural resources, developed infrastructure, and active foreign policy. The country remains the region's largest economy with a high level of international integration, making it attractive to investors and large multinational companies.
In the regional comparison, Kazakhstan ranked higher than Uzbekistan (77th) and Belarus (84th), but behind Russia (39th) and Azerbaijan (69th). This demonstrates that Kazakhstan is perceived as a leader in Central Asia, but its international image still lags behind that of larger global players.
Kazakhstan's main advantage remains its economic openness and participation in major transport projects, including the development of routes between China and Europe through Central Asia. However, the ranking also highlights existing challenges: the need to improve the quality of public institutions, develop human capital, and accelerate economic diversification.
For Kazakhstan, improving its position in such international rankings is linked not only to image but also to practical economic benefits—attracting investment, developing tourism, and expanding international partnerships. In the context of intensifying competition among countries in the region, further growth will depend on the ability to transition from a commodity-based economic model to a more innovative and technologically advanced one.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
July 15, 2026