Key factors of economic resilience of single-industry towns in Kazakhstan

The increasing instability of the global economy and the growing impact of external shocks have intensified the importance of economic resilience at the regional level. This issue is particularly relevant for Kazakhstan due to the presence of single-industry towns, whose economies are characterized by high sectoral concentration, dependence on core enterprises, and sensitivity to external economic changes. This creates the need for a more accurate assessment of the factors influencing their stability. The aim of the study is to identify the key factors of economic resilience of single-industry towns in Kazakhstan based on a quantitative analysis of socio-economic indicators. The study is based on official statistical data for 2019–2025 for the towns of Zhezkazgan, Temirtau, and Ridder. Correlation and regression analysis methods are applied to assess the strength and direction of factor influence on investment activity. The results reveal a strong positive relationship between investment in fixed capital and wage levels, as well as a significant negative relationship with unemployment. The effect of employment is less pronounced. The findings also show that the strength of factor influence varies across towns, reflecting differences in their economic structure and adaptive capacity. The scientific contribution lies in the application of a quantitative approach to assess economic resilience at the city level. The practical significance of the study is related to the use of the results in regional policy aimed at increasing investment activity, reducing unemployment, and strengthening the resilience of single-industry towns in Kazakhstan.

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