The development of financial technologies at the present stage leads to the spread and active use of electronic money in national payment systems, which provide a convenient and secure way to carry out fast financial transactions without the need to use cash. Due to this main advantage, the use of electronic money has become widespread in a short period. Digital payment instruments provide users with the flexibility and access to make transactions anytime and anywhere, but at the same time, the development of electronic money circulation is also associated with some problems and the need to improve their regulation. The era of new payment technologies has presented us with new challenges related to various transactions between entities. The development of trade, including via the Internet, has led to the search for new, fast and effective means of payment, in particular when it comes to paying for goods and services. Nowadays, more and more people are abandoning the use of cash in favor of electronic money, which leads to the popularity of the concept of electronic money. The purpose of the article is to determine the impact and features of new technologies, such as blockchain, digital wallet and cryptocurrency, on the functioning of electronic money in the national payment system. The subject of the study is electronic money and payment technologies used in the national payment system, forming a system of electronic economic relations.

The rapid emergence and growth of the financial technology industry (Fintech) in Kazakhstan has made it one of the fastest growing areas in all financial sectors of the country. It occupies a leading position in various indicators, such as the volume of financial transactions and the coverage of end users of its services. The country's digital development and Internet technologies are contributing to the growth of the industry, where the impact of the pandemic has also contributed. Despite all the difficulties caused by COVID-19, the Kazakh economy has undergone significant changes, especially with the accelerated development of Fintech in the banking environment, where there are enormous growth rates due to digitalization. The article shows the metrics of Kaspi, one of the digitalization-leading and fastest-growing banks. The article's goal is to examine the current situation of Kazakhstan's financial technology market using Kaspi Bank as an example, which involves finding new, contemporary directions for Fintech development in banks and taking Kazakhstan's development experience into account. The work also reflects the concept of Fintech and its main directions of development in the modern world. The research was carried out using various methods, such as statistical analysis, system analysis, systematization of theoretical data and observation of economic processes.

Despite the fact that more than ten years have passed since the rules for domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs) were developed, the issues of identification of systemically important banks (SIB) and their regulation remain relevant today. Of particular interest is the possibility of forming uniform criteria for identifying systemically important banks within the framework of regional economic associations. The study is aimed at studying the prerequisites and fundamental possibilities of creating common criteria for classifying banks of the participating countries (Kazakhstan, Belarus, Russia) as SIB at the level of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) through a clusterization approach. Clustering methodologies using Euclidean distance metrics and the Hamming model allowed for an initial study on the potential of the participating countries to develop common criteria for the SIB of the EAEU Union. The results of the analysis showed that the participating countries have the potential and some prerequisites for the development of common criteria within the union. However, it was found that the systemically important banks of the participating countries often change the level, since the criteria are not stable. Therefore, when forming uniform criteria, this point should be taken into account and criteria should be developed that are not approximated with each other, and similar features are significantly distinctive. The study consists of two parts, this work is the first part.

Tax committees routinely scrutinize the accrued tax payments, assessing their dynamics through data extracted from tax registers, financial and tax reports. This analysis unveils various reasons for non-payment of tax liabilities and pinpoints factors influencing the formation of the tax base. Adhering to the provisions of the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan is crucial for accurately determining the tax base for each type of tax. The analytical process unfolds in stages throughout the reporting year, enabling the tracking of tax liabilities’ dynamics, identification of unpaid amounts, monitoring changes in tax policy, and evaluating the impact of tax changes on the overall tax burden. In addition, it should be noted that all the work of analysts is aimed at preventing tax offences. As sources of analysis we recommend using primary accounting data, tax accounting data in the form of tax registers, financial and tax reporting. A tax analysis is necessary in order to answer the question of how much the company pays taxes to the budget. Based on the tax analysis data, each manager independently determines the optimal tax burden and, depending on this, takes measures for tax planning. Based on the results of the tax analysis, it is possible to determine which taxes are repaid on time, and, if necessary, develop specific measures to reduce the tax burden. Given the evolving landscape of the digital economy in Kazakhstan, the relevance of studying tax analysis becomes imperative. The article comprehensively explores the essence, purpose, and objectives of enterprise tax analysis, delves into the information support necessary for tax analysis, and proposes a systematic approach to indicators for effective tax analysis.

The labor market, as an area where demand and supply for labor is formed, and where conditions are created for their effective interaction, has attracted the attention of researchers for many centuries. Economists of various schools have long studied the factors influencing the number of working-age population, employed and unemployed. The study of all aspects of the labor market and analysis of the features of their interaction are key to ensuring effective employment and achieving the socio-economic goals that the state sets for itself at this stage of social development. Between 2001 and 2021, changes occurred in the country's economy. One of the most noticeable trends is the increase in the share of those employed in the service sector, which is largely due to the development of information and communication technologies and e-commerce, as well as other spheres. This dynamic is clearly evident in the labor market. In addition, other significant changes are taking place in the labor market. According to the above classification by type of economic activity, it can be concluded that the employed population is mainly concentrated in the service sector. Most of the employed are concentrated in education, transport and warehousing, as well as health care and social services. Next are education, transport and warehousing, wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorbikes. The employment sector also underwent significant changes and fluctuations during crisis periods, such as pandemic and financial crisis, as shown by the analyses carried out with the help of A. Okun’s law.

In this article the authors investigate the issue of employment of persons with disabilities in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The studied foreign experience has shown that in developed countries the government develops various state programs aimed at the development of an inclusive society. The activity of these bodies is manifested in the implementation of measures that promote effective employment of persons with disabilities. The study showed that the non-profit sector also plays an important role in the adaptation of persons with disabilities in the labor market. The article shows the analysis of the state of the labor market of persons with disabilities in the Republic of Kazakhstan for the last 5 years. The authors showed the structure of the number of persons with disabilities in the context of regions of Kazakhstan, as well as crisis and emergency statuses in the context of regions The parameters of the level of social well-being of persons with disabilities in the Republic of Kazakhstan were given. The study showed the structure of employed persons with disabilities in the context of industries, as well as the factors that negatively affect the process of employment of persons with disabilities. State support for the employment of persons with disabilities depends on many factors, including socio-cultural, economic and legislative features of a particular country. The main principles of state support for persons with disabilities include the principle of equal opportunities, the principle of individual approach, the principle of inclusion, partnership and consultation and others. The authors cited the example of state social policy of Sweden and other developed countries as an example of social policy development for our country. In addition, the article shows the state measures to promote employment for persons with disabilities.

A positive national brand plays a key role in enhancing the competitiveness of a country. In this regard, the role of researching issues related to its promotion in the global economic environment is increasing. The purpose of this article is to study the current state of branding of Kazakhstan in the global space to identify key problematic aspects and develop recommendations related to its promotion. The methods of analysis, synthesis, expert survey, extrapolation and graphic representation were used to study theoretical and practical aspects of Kazakhstan’s brand promotion in the global space. As a result of the conducted research, the structural attributes of Kazakhstan’s brand were specified and its model was defined on the basis of S. Einholt’s hexagon concept. The analysis of the results of world rankings as the most optimal tools for measuring the attractiveness of the state allowed to establish the multidirectional position of Kazakhstan. The comparative analysis of the Global Competitiveness Index for the last five years has shown an improvement in the country’s position on the factors that determine the attractiveness of investment in the economy of the state. Based on the results of the study of the evolution of brand management, expert survey and SWOT-analysis of the promotion of the national brand of Kazakhstan in the global space, the main problems in the formation of the national brand have been identified. The key among them is the lack of a unified strategy for the promotion of the national brand. There are also no recognisable brands in the field of digital technologies, tourist brands, there is low involvement of citizens in creating an attractive image of the country. The stages of constructing the national brand of Kazakhstan on the basis of identifying and supporting its identity are proposed. The results of the study can be used in the development of the strategy of promotion of the national brand of Kazakhstan by state authorities.

The article is devoted to solving the problem of reducing the number of young specialists in the civil service system of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Currently, the task of attracting talented and young specialists to the civil service is one of the priority and strategic in the framework of the ongoing professionalization of the state apparatus. This is due, firstly, to the growing shortage of qualified specialists in many areas of public service activities, and secondly, to the increased competition in the labor market for young and talented staff. In these conditions, public bodies have to compete with organizations of private and quasi-public sectors, which often offer more attractive financial conditions when hiring employees. In this regard, in order to overcome the possible negative consequences of these trends, as well as to effectively attract and retain talented personnel in the civil service, it is necessary to work comprehensively, providing not only for the introduction of advanced approaches to entering the civil service, but also for the creation of attractive conditions for being in it. The purpose of this study is to analyze the domestic practice of stimulating the attraction of young people to the civil service, as well as to develop recommendations aimed at increasing the attractiveness of civil service for talented young people. This study reviews domestic and foreign literature on the subject, analyzes the current model of attracting young people to the civil service, identifies the problems of staffing the civil service and career preferences of young people, as well as recommendations to improve the attractiveness of public service and prevent the outflow of talented young personnel.

The achievement of sustainable development goals with the help of the implementation of a systematic approach to managing the resource potential of regions through sustainable development goals is one of the actual objectives in regional management. Mapping is known as an approach, which allows combining several data sources with different scaling. This study aims to develop regional resource provision map for creating sustainable development conditions. Multidisciplinary research is a valuable source of this research that allows to unit ESG criteria and their regional commitment through cartographic science tools. The methodology is presented in the form of a sequence of actions to draw up a resource supply map. Using the presented map of Western Kazakhstani region confirms the validity of the scientific and applied methodology. The research outcomes contain proven arguments for the further research based on the issues of constructing integrated resource provision maps for the Kazakhstani regions. Key cartography approaches make it possible to form recommendations for similar maps use in terms of decision-making based on interregional interaction, taking into account resource potential, consisting of natural, labor, financial, and infrastructural capabilities of the regions and environmental risk assessments. Developed recommendations were tested with the help of Microsoft Power BI and SuperMap (laboratory of “Geoinformation Cartography” of Kazakh National University named after al-Farabi Kazakh).

The energy sector is a fundamental element of the economic structure of any state, determining its sustainability, competitiveness and ability to innovate. In this context, Kazakhstan, which has significant reserves of hydrocarbons, energy sources and renewable properties, finds itself at the crossroads of solving issues of energy policy, innovation and sustainable development. The electricity sector is a priority resource necessary to maintain the economic security of the country. This is relevant due to the rapid growth of industrial production and demography in order to maintain increasing demand and increase electricity generation in the country. The purpose of this scientific work is focused on the economic analysis of electricity generation and consumption, as well as the identification of shortcomings and the proposal of recommendations to ensure the sustainable development of the energy sector in Kazakhstan. Using the scientific method of analysis, the study aims to identify trends that determine the level of electricity consumption in the country, as well as to offer recommendations for the sustainable and effective development of this industry. The article is a valuable contribution to strengthening and modernizing the energy system of the country. The results of the research are: the current state of Kazakhstani energy sector is revealed against the background of anti-Russian sanctions, increased energy prices and global uncertainty; a comparative analysis of electricity production is carried out; an economic assessment of primary and final energy consumption from 2015 to 2023 was carried out; the reasons for changes in electricity generation and consumption from the perspective of industrial and consumer demand growth were substantiated; shortcomings were revealed and proposals were made to improve the development and consumption of electricity in the republic. The results obtained have significant potential to initiate certain transformations in the energy sector of Kazakhstan. The article is a scientific work contributing to the development of theory and practice in the field of energy in Kazakhstan. This research contributes to the further development of energy consumption and improvement of the country's energy infrastructure, ensuring its sustainability and competitiveness in the long term.

This article is focused on analyzing the market conditions for agricultural products in Central Asian countries. The study was conducted in order to identify the current state and prospects for the development of the agricultural sector in the region. The authors analyzed the volume of production and consumption of agricultural products, market structure, trends in price dynamics, as well as domestic and external demand for agricultural products. Special attention is paid to the role of international cooperation and cooperation of entrepreneurs in the development of the agricultural sector. The results of the study can be used to develop strategies for the development of the agricultural sector in Central Asian countries. The purpose of the study is to determine the optimal range of agricultural products, study options for their possible processing into a finished product in order to create an effective production chain within the framework of cooperation between entrepreneurs in Central Asian countries based on an analysis of the market conditions for agricultural products in these countries. The analysis of domestic and external demand for agricultural products will assist in developing strategies to increase export opportunities and attract investment. The findings of the study can be used by Central Asian governments to make informed decisions in the field of agricultural policy and entrepreneurship support. In addition, the research will help strengthen international cooperation and cooperation between entrepreneurs in the region, which will lead to sustainable development of the agricultural industry.

Today, certain transformation processes are taking place in almost all spheres of public life in Kazakhstan. The dynamically growing need to ensure the sustainable development of the country persistently requires the country to take a fundamentally new approach to the issue of state regulation of sustainable development of agriculture. The functions of rural areas are diverse and extremely important, both in economic and social aspects. As a rule, a special place in them belongs to ensuring the country’s food security, reproduction of labor resources, preservation of folk traditions, unique national culture, and development of natural resources. There is no doubt that rural areas are a special place, as an entertainment, tourist, leisure, medical and recreational, resort, park, sports, possessing and providing a number of social services to the population. Rural areas are the basis for the location of production and maintenance of utilities (roads, power lines, oil and gas pipelines). In this regard, the development of agriculture is of particular importance and requires immediate improvement. This analysis is devoted to studying the needs and mechanisms for improving government regulation and support for the agricultural sector. In accordance with this study, the current situation and trends in agriculture at the regional level for the development of a system of state regulation of sustainable development of the agricultural sector, a conceptual model has been put forward, through a set of interrelated effects (socio-economic, environmental, technical, technological, organizational, biological, dynamic), which has a certain clear structure depending on the assigned tasks and goals of the functioning of agriculture, will allow the implementation of a set of measures to achieve a rational level of government influence on the agricultural sector of the economy for the purpose of effective development.

The purpose of the article is to study the models for creating innovative “milk processing cooperative”, created on the basis of cooperative relations with dairy-producing personal subsidiary farms, to give recommendations. Based on the creation of dairy processing cooperatives in private subsidiary farms for processing and selling milk within the country, their great potential is being used and dependence on dairy products is being reduced. The models and options for creating dairy processing cooperatives based on the cooperation of private subsidiary farms in the dairy industry of the country are presented: 1) the creation of a “dairy processing innovation cooperative” based on a cooperative relationship with personal subsidiary farms; 2) under a cooperative agreement with personal subsidiary farms of the Turkistan region, the activities of the innovative dairy processing company FoodMaster-Shymkent LLP were considered; 3) the creation of a “dairy production cooperative” with a commercial dairy farm in the settlements of the district is suggested, based on the cooperation process. This is due to the fact that dairy processing and marketing cooperatives, along with the collection, processing, and sale of milk from personal subsidiary farms, of which they were members, assume responsibilities for processing land plots, foraging, providing breeding young animals, providing production and technical services, and state support for personal subsidiary farms. State support (subsidies, tax and credit benefits) through “milk-producing cooperatives”, in which personal subsidiary farms are created, support for personal subsidiary farms is provided through milk-producing cooperatives and milk-processing cooperatives.

The new stage of global development is characterized by the movement of data across national borders, which is changing the nature and patterns of commerce. Despite the existence of e-commerce for many years, the current scale of these transactions is not commensurate with the previous ones. In addition, the emergence of marketplaces has fundamentally changed the rules of the game, causing a transformation of commerce processes. The purpose of the research is to compile a forecast model of changes in the volume of Kazakhstan's retail e-commerce market in the optimistic, pessimistic and baseline scenarios. Forecast models were formed as a result of correlation and multiple regression analysis. Scenario forecasts were built taking into account changes in the volume of retail trade in the country based on current conditions of the economy functioning. The results of the study allowed to identify factors that positively and negatively affect the development of the retail e-commerce market in Kazakhstan. The first group includes the growth of the total volume of retail trade, the share of Internet users aged 16–74, the share of non-cash payments in the total structure of payments, and the second group includes the growth of cash payments. The scientific significance of the obtained results lies in the justification of the influence of a set of factors on the change in the volume of the retail e-commerce market. The obtained results can be used by authorized bodies to regulate the market under study by influencing individual factors of e-commerce development.

In recent years e-commerce has begun to play a significant role in the development of a market economy. Every year, its influence grows, changing the surrounding market infrastructure and people's attitude to the new conditions of digital commerce. The purpose of the article is to determine the features and prospects of the development of e-commerce in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The domestic online sales market is considered as an object of research. The paper analyzes the current state of the e-commerce market, identifies the main trends and prospects for its development. The dynamics of the development of e-commerce in the period from 2016-2022 is presented, the main factors that have a positive impact on the growth of e-commerce, such as a high level of digitalization, the development of new digital technologies in the market of non-cash payments and others are considered. The factors that have a negative impact on the domestic online sales market have been identified: underdevelopment of the logistics infrastructure, rising inflation, an insufficiently effective mechanism for regulating online commerce and consumer protection. To assess consumer behavior in regions with a less developed e-commerce market, a survey was conducted among residents of the Abai region, which allowed to determine the prospects for the development of this market. Measures have been proposed to develop the logistics infrastructure and introduce innovative delivery methods that will contribute to the growth of the industry. The results of the work can be used in the development and implementation of programs in the field of stimulating the development of the e-commerce market and improving its infrastructure.  

The relevance of the study of the methodology of demographic transition lies in its significance for understanding and analyzing population dynamics, the challenges of an aging society, changes in fertility, mortality and migration, as well as assessing the impact on the sustainable socio-economic development of the country. This study has important practical significance for the development of policies for national population management, social protection and health care, as well as for forecasting trends in the development of society and its sustainability in the long term. The purpose of the study is to analyze various sources devoted to the methodology of demographic transition, including from the standpoint of influence on the sustainable development of the state. The authors seek to identify the main approaches used in research on this topic, evaluate their effectiveness and identify the most significant results obtained in this area. The research methodology includes a systematic review of the literature and analysis of various sources devoted to the methodology of demographic transition, on the basis of which five main approaches are formed, their drivers and mechanisms are identified, and recommendations for further research in this area are offered. The authors discuss current trends that researchers are facing, and also highlight promising directions for future research on the impact of demographic transition methodology on the sustainable development of the country.

According to the operational data of the Bureau of national statistics of the agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Strategic Planning and reforms as of November 14, 2023, the population of Kazakhstan was 20,000,000 people. Despite the fact that in recent years there has been an increase in this indicator, it is impossible to neglect the presence of certain demographic problems in the country. Kazakhstan ranks 61st among 242 countries in the world population ranking. In turn, given the fact that the population density in the country is 7.3 people per 1 km2, experts say that in order to reach correspondence between the number of population and the size of the territory, it is necessary that this indicator is increased by no less than two times. Taking into account the fact that the average annual population growth in the Republic of Kazakhstan is 1.2–1.3%, it will take more than 70 years for the population to double. The main indicators that affect the demographic situation in the country include the population, its composition, birth and death rates, marriage and divorce rates, and migration conditions. In this regard, we consider it important to thoroughly study these indicators and, on the basis of this, take measures aimed at optimizing the demographic situation in the country. The purpose of the article is to develop suggestions for increasing the population of the country based on an in – depth analysis of the demographic situation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, including the gender aspect.

The purchasing process is considered one of the important functional areas in logistics, aimed at managing the movement of material flows in the enterprise. Each enterprise plans purchases, as well as their implementation, but they are not always given enough attention, which leads to both the irrational use of materials and increased costs for the purchase of raw materials. Therefore, systematic analysis of supply procedures and monitoring of this type of activity is desirable. Approaches to assessing the performance of enterprise procurement aimed at reducing costs and ensuring financial stability are relevant. To increase the efficiency of supply chain work, it is recommended to use research methodology: with a well-organized procurement process, we can talk about increasing the profitability and profitability of the company. Among the methods used to organize supply, the principles of ensuring continuity of supply are considered, which indicate the need to study this issue. The authors come to the conclusion that using the example of company “A”, methods are analyzed that make it possible to regulate the supply of goods, depending on the calculation of demand.

The tourism business is growing rapidly as a tool for economic development, revenue generation and development of national and international economies. After all, tourism business allows to create jobs, increase investments and products. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the current state of tourism business development in the city of Almaty and SWOT-analysis of the main problems and prospects. In the course of the study, survey questions were developed with a review of literature included in the Scopus and WoS database, with the main conclusions drawn. The survey was conducted to determine the level of tourism business development in Almaty city, in which owners and managers of 523 enterprises voluntarily participated. In order to ensure the accuracy of the survey, the answers of 510 respondents were selected after a 3-month selection process. The analysis of the survey responses showed that 72.7% of tourism business representatives do not have special tourism education; and 32.9% do not have staff contracts. However, as positive perspectives: it is encouraging that respondents are keen to grow their businesses, keen to overcome the effects and crisis of the Covid-19 pandemic, and that 29% of respondents are young entrepreneurs. In addition, as a result of SWOT-analysis, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks of tourism business development in Almaty became known. Thus, this study helps to identify a promising direction for future research, being an auxiliary tool in solving problems that hinder the development of tourism infrastructure in Almaty, improvement of service provision, sustainable development of tourism business.  

The purpose of the article is to compile the author's characteristics of the values of inclusive tourism and creative development in an inclusive economy based on the analysis of international works of researchers, classification of the values of inclusive development and creative growth in the study of the influence of creative tourism on inclusive economic growth, to determine the level of priority indicators affecting economic growth, to determine the significance in the proportion of several indicators. The regulatory mechanisms necessary for the formation of the necessary level of creative tourism development in the study of development directions in inclusive economic growth are proposed. The relevance of the article lies in the fact that the dynamic development of tourism in the inclusive economic growth of the world's countries is becoming the main topic of research of the United Nations, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development, the World Bank and the whole world. In this regard, since 2021, the Republic of Kazakhstan has also embarked on the development of creative tourism along an inclusive path towards a creative economy. During the research of the article, methods of analyzing various indicators of sustainability, arithmetic mean estimation of the studied indicators and the significance of their specific weight, economic and statistical analysis, generalization, comparison were used. In conclusion, the various effects of several indicators on overall sustainability are identified, the priority weight of inclusive indicators in the development of tourism is determined, through the results obtained, to propose integrated approaches as a means of integration and systematization in ensuring the necessary level in the development of tourism.  

The study focuses on the specifics and peculiarities of the implementation of strategic plans in the sphere of economy and politics of Central Asian (CA) countries in response to the challenges of deglobalisation. The purpose of the article is to analyse and evaluate the socio-economic strategies of Kazakhstan and Central Asian countries in the context of their integration processes and development, and to determine their impact on regional stability and international cooperation. The study was conducted using such scientific methods as systematic literature review, meta-analysis, analytical synthesis, comparative and critical analysis. The scientific significance of the study lies in the systematisation and critical analysis of the strategies of socio-economic development of CA countries through the prism of their participation in regional integration processes, which allows to deepen the understanding of this multidimensional phenomenon. The practical significance of the work is expressed in the formation of proposals for the optimisation of integration processes, which is important for the creation of an effective economic environment in the region. The results of the study are of value for the academic community, politicians and experts dealing with regional integration and international economic relations in general. The recommendations proposed in the article can be used to develop more effective mechanisms of interstate interaction and the formation of sustainable economic policy.  

The article analyzes the foreign experience of tax regulation of socio-economic processes in the EU countries and the possibility of its adaptation to the Kazakh economy. A significant analogy has been revealed in the main taxes in European countries with common political and economic interests, historically interacting in solving problems of global development. The mechanisms of the regulatory impact of taxes on the social and economic development of foreign countries are studied: VAT, excise taxes, corporate income tax, personal income tax. The advantages and disadvantages of applying various tax benefits and preferences, principles of taxation organization in the world taxation practice are revealed. Tax systems differ significantly in the number of taxes and their structure, organization and management methodology. Along with this, it is impossible not to recognize the significant similarity of the main taxes in countries geographically close to each other, having common political and economic interests, historically interacting in solving global development issues. The study of historical experience also allows us to assert the social significance of such a tax as VAT, given its application to the consumption of luxury goods. Taxation of these goods made it possible to partially make additional withdrawals of income from the well-to-do segments of the population and redistribute them, to a certain extent serving social equalization. The results of the study confirm the significant similarity of the instruments of tax regulation of socio-economic processes in different countries, caused by historical, geographical and economic-globalization factors. In turn, this allows us to use the advantages of foreign experience in Kazakhstan, adapting its individual elements to domestic conditions and taking into account the peculiarities of the development of the national economy and the specifics of the circumstances of the formation of the tax system of our state.

Urban assessment is crucial for understanding the dynamics of city development, identifying areas for improvement, and formulating targeted policies to enhance the quality of life for residents. This study focuses on evaluating Kazakhstan’s megacities across nine indicators grouped into financial and economic condition, business development, and living standards. Using comparative analysis and ranking methods, the study assesses budgetary allocations, population dynamics, industrial growth, and the impact of strategic investments on urban development. Drawing on current economic and demographic trends, the study examines the role of cities as drivers of economic growth and highlights the importance of addressing social and economic inequalities. Through a literature review, the study contextualizes the findings within the broader discourse on urbanization and economic development, emphasizing the need for nuanced strategies to address regional disparities. Methodologically, a rating system based on quantitative indicators from 2010 to 2022 is employed, with a heatmap visualization to illustrate city rankings across various indicators. Using aggregated data on key economic indicators, the cities were classified into three categories: high-ranking, mid-ranking and low-ranking. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of urban development in Kazakhstan and provides insights for policy formulation aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive growth across its megacities. The city ranking analysis depicts a varied economic landscape in Kazakhstani cities. High-ranked cities exhibit robust economic performance with low poverty rates, strong average salaries, and active retail trade, hinting at promising business prospects. Mid-ranked cities show mixed performances, while low-ranked cities face considerable economic challenges, including higher poverty, lower salaries, and potential declines in trade.

The purpose of the study is to provide a systematic literature review that identifies the key reasons for the development of strategic thinking in companies. In the current economic environment, considering the integration of Kazakhstan into the global community, it becomes clear that the effective development of strategic thinking is necessary not only for small and medium-sized businesses, but also for large companies requiring deep reforms. The methodological basis of the study is the principles of economic theory in the field of management and strategic management. As part of the study, an analysis of the main works of classical scientists and modern researchers in the field of strategic thinking was conducted using methods of systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis. The total number of literary sources used is thirty. As a result of the study, four main factors (antecedents) for the development of strategic thinking were identified, which were most often mentioned in foreign studies and substantiated through scientific methods of analysis: vision, creativity, corporate culture, and knowledge management. The significance of this study lies in identifying and justifying the significance of these factors in the development of strategic thinking, which can become a competitive advantage in the market.

Modern forecasting methodology is quite flexible and multifaceted. Foresight tools can be widely used at different hierarchical levels of management. The use of a systemic approach in combination with foresight technologies makes it possible to develop strategic plans for the development of rural areas in terms of improving their economic and social component. The purpose of the study is to establish the scientific basis for the use of Foresight methodology in strategic planning for the development of rural areas. The scientific novelty of the research is determined by the development of an algorithm for strategic planning of rural development on the basis of foresight methodology and the formation of a set of practical recommendations for the use of foresight tools at the regional level of management in rural areas. The article analyzes Foresight projects and programs used in forecasting rural management and development. The study presents a Foresight algorithm for strategic planning of rural development and a mechanism for its implementation at the local level. The main components of the procedure were formed as a result of a comprehensive Foresight analysis of alternative rural development scenarios. Foresight technologies must be used as a systematic tool for the formation and implementation of a strategy for sustainable development of rural areas. The main results of the study include: generalization of the experience of Foresight studies of rural development; development of an algorithm for strategic planning of rural development based on Foresight methodology; formation of alternative scenarios for the development of rural areas at the regional level. Methodological approaches and provisions for strategic planning of rural development, developed using the Foresight methodology, can be used in creating road maps and strategic plans for the socio-economic development of rural areas.

In the article, the authors consider the current state of the labor market in the rural sector, namely, the efficiency of the use of labor resources in agriculture through quantitative and qualitative indicators. The analysis of these indicators allows to get information about the main problems and difficulties faced by employers in the process of using labor resources. Based on the analysis, the authors note that one of the main problems of agricultural enterprises affecting the competitive capabilities of the industry is the qualification of labor resources. At the level of senior management, the provision of high-quality personnel is relative. But there are not enough middle-level specialists and working professions. The authors also note that young professionals have no interest in staying in agriculture, so there is a high turnover of personnel. The authors conclude that the rapid development of technologies of the fourth industrial revolution, including digitalization, automation, and generational change of specialists and workers in the industry are the driving forces that change the requirements for the professionalism of employees of the agricultural industry. Therefore, in order to be competitive in the labor market, it is necessary to master new competencies and skills that can make their work indispensable. To win competition with machines, it is necessary to develop the ability to communicate with different people and the ability to work in a team, to train the willingness to solve problems and the desire to think outside the box. These competencies are universal for all professional fields of activity.

In conditions of risk and uncertainty, food security is ensured taking into account the requirements of isolation, safety and health, which requires changes to the existing supply chain (SC) system in the food environment, as well as the creation of more sustainable food supply chains. The aim of the study is to assess the conditions and factors of the functioning of the food commodity distribution chain (FCDC) of the agri-food market in conditions of risk, in particular, the COVID-19 pandemic. To formulate a conceptual framework reflecting the structure of the SC elements, the method of systematic review and generalization of literature was used; the method of expert survey of participants in the SC of food products (FP). During the analysis, seven significant factor constraints (technological, financial, economic, institutional, social, epidemiological, geographical) were revealed, the environment and operating conditions of the FCDC associated with the impact of the pandemic were identified. The risk factors of the environment and operating conditions of the FCDC and their possible effects on the SC are evaluated. Practical recommendations are given to reduce risks and improve the efficiency of the agro-food commodity distribution SC. The study attempts to study the influence of various factors caused by the restriction of the functioning of the food environment and affecting the stability of the SC of perishable products. The results could also be used to inform SC participants about the measures needed to create more sustainable SC foods in the future.

This article employs a systematic approach to examine the structure of Kazakhstan’s scientific infrastructure, emphasizing its role as a harmonious network of organizations dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship in the realm of science and technology. The central aim is to comprehensively assess the scientific infrastructure of Kazakhstan, encompassing its constituent elements, the overall state of science in the country, its scientific, scientific-technical, and human potential. Furthermore, the article conducts a meticulous examination of the conditions across various scientific domains. Through this analysis, the article identifies a complex web of connections that imbue the scientific infrastructure with systemic attributes, enabling a comprehensive understanding of their diversity, quality, and distinct roles in its development. Notably, the author underscores the pivotal role played by the state in shaping and advancing the scientific infrastructure, as it possesses the capacity to pool the essential resources required for its efficient operation. This is essential for establishing systemic innovation within the economy, thereby incentivizing economic entities to pursue novel advancements. Besides, this article offers a systematic exploration of Kazakhstan’s scientific infrastructure, highlighting its significance as a facilitator of innovation and commercialization of scientific and technical research.

The purpose of this article is to assess the transit capacity of Kazakhstan in order to identify the main factors influencing the development of transit opportunities and transport connections in the country. The purpose of this comprehensive analysis is to identify key opportunities and problematic aspects in the country's transit capabilities, as well as to identify recommendations for the modernization and development of the transit industry in the interests of economic attractiveness and increasing the competitiveness of Kazakhstan as a transit hub on the world stage. The definition of transit potential is one of those related to the assessment of the potential for using a particular transport route or transport opportunity for the transportation of certain goods and passengers. A transit potential assessment includes an analysis of factors such as geography, accessibility, infrastructure, demand for transport services and competitive advantages and allows you to determine the effectiveness of the use of a transport route or infrastructure, identify possible problems or bottlenecks, and develop strategies for improving the transit system. This work is an analytical study of the transit capabilities of our country. The research manuscript provides a correlation and regression analysis of the total volume of transit traffic in the Republic of Kazakhstan, which is one of the ways to study international economic relations between the volume of traffic and various factors. The results obtained in the conducted analyses allow us to offer recommendations on improving the efficiency and competitiveness of the transit sector in Kazakhstan.  

In an era marked by rapid technological progress and social shifts, the pursuit of sustainable development has become an urgent necessity for the global community. Within the framework of the global agenda, universities have begun to play a key role, using their profound influence on the younger generation and the academic sphere as a whole to form a culture deeply rooted in the principles of sustainable development. In general, alumni associations serve as crucial channels bridging the gap between the academic world and society. It is for this reason that the authors have set out to assess the effectiveness of alumni associations through the perspective of two different generations of graduates: young graduates and representatives from the earliest cohorts. Using a qualitative research approach, which includes in-depth interviews and expert evaluations, this study aims to assess the key criteria for an effective alumni association. The resulting data, supported by mathematical analysis and stakeholder theory, not only shed light on the success criteria for alumni associations but also offer practical recommendations for enhancing their contribution to sustainable development. The research conducted within the context of a Kazakhstani university provides valuable insights and practical strategies for integrating sustainable development into the economic and managerial structure of the academic sphere, setting a precedent for universities worldwide.

The purpose of this article is to determine the role of language and education in the self-identification and socioeconomic integration of repatriates into Kazakh society. The study is based on an analysis of historical materials, a comparison of statistical data and scientific works on this topic, as well as the results of field research – narrative biographical interviews with kandas, which were conducted in 3 regions of Kazakhstan: Almaty region, Esik; East Kazakhstan region, Shygys village; and North Kazakhstan region, the village of Sergeevka. These field studies were carried out in July-August 2023 under the project “Identification aspects of the integration of Kandas into Kazakh society”, dedicated to the problems of adaptation and integration of repatriates in Kazakhstan. The article examines various aspects related to language problems, such as insufficient knowledge of the Russian language, the impact of the language issue on self-identification and sociocultural adaptation and economic integration of the kandas. The article also examines the economic opportunities of repatriates depending on their level of education as well as education programs are offered by the state for young repatriates. In conclusion, the article summarizes the results and offers recommendations for improving integration mechanisms, such as strengthening language and cultural training; development of professional retraining and advanced training programs; simplification of bureaucratic procedures related to employment and obtaining documents; improving information support and consulting services for repatriates. This study is important for understanding and supporting the process of adaptation of kandas and creating a favorable environment for their socio-economic integration in Kazakh society. The results of the study can be used to develop and improve government programs aimed at supporting repatriates. The recommendations proposed in the article can help improve integration mechanisms and create more favorable conditions for the socioeconomic adaptation of the kandas. Taken together, the scientific significance of the article is manifested in its ability to expand knowledge about the processes of integration of repatriates and provide practical recommendations for improving these processes.

This article examines the issue of educational migration of youth in Kazakhstan in conditions of fierce competition. As a result of the research, it was revealed that educational migration in Kazakhstan is becoming a trend of the present time, which has its pros and cons, in particular: obtaining a diploma from a well-known foreign university is prestigious, helps in the growth of personal success, but also has a great threat - this is very It is difficult to name the exact number of people who returned from abroad after training. These figures were not found by us, which requires studying the state and prospects of educational migration. In the process of the study it was found that among Kazakh students the migration destinations to the Czech Republic, Russia, Turkey and China are in the greatest demand and availability. At the same time, it is worth noting that such countries as Japan, the USA, South Korea, the UK and Singapore also attract attention, but access to these states is limited. The article touches upon the topic of public policy in the field of educational migration and considers the impact of public policy in the education system through SWOT analysis. Factors that confirm that the Republic of Kazakhstan is a student-supplying country to other EAEU countries and at the same time receives students from Uzbekistan, India and Russia are described. The scientific research was based on the use of information base, including open sources of specialised databases of normative and legal acts, as well as official web resources of the Scopus Preview database, which showed and existing problems concerning the adaptation of students, the most relevant of them: the impossibility of legal employment, the high cost of housing and poor living conditions. To reduce the burden on the state, focus on creating opportunities for youth self-realization and utilizing their potential for regional development.

The article considers the best practices of trend development in higher education services. Education reform is among the country's priorities and has been in a permanent state for almost a third of a century, yet despite massive reform efforts, the quality of educational services and corps faculty at all levels of the education market has improved little, if at all, over the past decades. The quarantine related to Covid-19 in Kazakhstan became the lens that clearly revealed these shortcomings of education and showed the fallacy of the trajectory of previously implemented reforms, which often took so much time, budget funds combined with their inefficient use. The pandemic revealed the weakest points in the educational system, the unwillingness of most teachers to work in an online format and confirmed that we are definitely not ready for the transition of digitalization in the era of globalization 2.0 and has already become a catalyst for unprecedented large-scale changes in this area. Highlighting the prospects for further development of the educational market in the context of social distancing and the post-pandemic period is very relevant. In the conditions of modernity, requirements of international education market of Kazakhstan higher education has acquired many actual directions and prospects of development, but still today many methods, forms, mechanisms, tools, organizational and structural transformations require their improvement and adjustment taking into account the state priorities in the field of education with national peculiarities and scientific researches of scientists, demand of consumers, main employers of RHEs and proposals from universities, which often do not coincide with the equilibrium supply and demand, so this study is relevant today and requires further research and problem solving on the implementation of educational trends in Kazakhstan.