A forum on the future of retail and FMCG in Central Asia took place in Astana.

On June 11, 2025, within the framework of the I International Expo-Forum EXPOGOODS CENTRAL ASIA at the EXPO Exhibition Center, the first Astana International Trade Forum took place on the topic “Retail NEXT Central Asia: The Future of Trade and FMCG.”

The forum brought together representatives of marketplaces, top managers of retail chains, distributors, manufacturers, and government officials to discuss trends, challenges, and development strategies for retail trade and the FMCG segment in Central Asian countries.

The event was opened by the Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Shakkaliev, the Minister of Agriculture of the Islamic Republic of Iran Golamreza Nouri, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of Kazakhstan Han Chunlin, and the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Republic of Kazakhstan Nauman Bashir Bhatti.

During the panel discussion and “CEO Talks: Retail Leaders — Course for 2025,” participants shared insights on trends and developments in e-commerce in Kazakhstan, the role of retail in the growth of transnational trade, and their experiences with drone delivery of goods.

At the session “Marketplace Dynamics: How to Work with Digital Showcases in Conditions of Hypercompetition,” participants discussed marketplace requirements for sellers and strategies for scaling sales.

At the forum “Retail Access 2025: From Local to Leader,” discussions focused on development strategies for Kazakhstani businesses, supplier requirements, company adaptation to the market, and the transformation of retail trade. Key topics included the scaling of retail chains, the development of local brands, and changes in the consumer electronics sector.

Additional information is available on the website.