Trends in the development of small and medium – sized enterprises in the agricultural sector of Kazakhstan

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the development trends of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural sector of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The study aims to analyse the development trends of SMEs in Kazakhstan’s agricultural sector based on statistical data for 2015–2024, assess their role in the national economy, and identify the main institutional constraints affecting the sector. The study employs economic and statistical, comparative, and structural analysis methods, as well as time-series analysis. The results demonstrate significant growth in the number of agricultural SMEs and their production activity. Between 2015 and 2024, the output produced by SMEs in the agricultural sector increased 3.6-fold, while its share in total agricultural output rose from 39.2% to 57.2%. At the same time, agriculture’s share in the total output produced by SMEs decreased from 8.2% to 5.8%. This change can be attributed to the structural transformation of the economy and the rapid development of the trade and service sectors. The findings also indicate that entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector is characterized by the predominance of the farming model, while entrepreneurs’ own funds constitute the main source of financing. Furthermore, the regional analysis revealed a high concentration of entrepreneurial activity in the southern and southeastern regions of the country. The scientific contribution of the study lies in its comprehensive assessment of SME development in the agricultural sector from structural and institutional perspectives. The practical significance of the study is determined by its recommendations for developing agro-processing infrastructure, diversifying financial instruments, and expanding agricultural cooperation.

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