Kazakhstan Proposes Minimum Wage Increase to 150,000 Tenge

The Government of Kazakhstan is considering a substantial increase to the National Minimum Wage (NMW), potentially raising it to 150,000 tenge. The proposal was disclosed by the First Vice-Minister of National Economy, Azamat Amrin.

According to Vice-Minister Amrin, this initiative is a key component of a comprehensive state program aimed at bolstering household incomes. Currently, the statutory minimum wage in Kazakhstan stands at 85,000 tenge. The proposed adjustment would represent a nearly 76% increase from the current level.

The Ministry's justification for the 150,000 tenge figure is rooted in global economic benchmarks.

International best practices suggest that the minimum wage should ideally represent approximately 50% of the national median wage. With Kazakhstan’s current median wage estimated at approximately 302,000 tenge, the proposed increase to 150,000 tenge would align the country with these international economic standards.

While the objective is clear, a definitive timeline for the implementation of the new wage floor has yet to be established. Amrin emphasized that the final decision remains contingent upon national budget capacities. Financial experts are currently conducting detailed calculations to ensure the sustainability of the measure within the broader economic framework.