In Astana, the first blockchain zone in Central Asia based on Solana has been launched.

Kazakhstan has taken another step toward digital transformation and the development of the blockchain economy. In Astana, the launch of the Solana Economic Zone Kazakhstan — the first economic zone in Central Asia based on the Solana blockchain platform — took place.

The event, organized with the support of the Solana Foundation, was attended by representatives of government agencies, international experts, and leaders of the Web3 ecosystem. The launch of SEZ KZ occurred on the eve of the Astana International Forum 2025 and became an important event at the intersection of technology, investment, and state policy.

World experience shows that creating specialized zones for the digital economy is an effective tool for technological leaps. For example, in Dubai, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Crypto Centre operates, hosting dozens of blockchain companies, with favorable regulation and startups gaining access to infrastructure and investments.

Kazakhstan is adopting the best international practices, adapting them to its own strategic goals. The Solana Economic Zone will serve as a platform for exchanging experience, piloting solutions, and enabling Kazakh companies to enter global markets.

The launch of the Solana Economic Zone reflects Kazakhstan's strategic readiness to integrate advanced digital technologies into the economy. During the event, blockchain-based solutions from international startups operating in sectors such as energy, finance, agrotech, game development, and trade were presented. Additionally, participants discussed opportunities for tokenizing securities, gold, real estate, and other assets.

The outcome of the meeting was the signing of a strategic memorandum covering the following issues:

— Tokenization of capital markets. A pilot project involving AIX, the Solana Foundation, Jupiter, and Intebix, aimed at introducing tokenized instruments into the existing financial infrastructure.

— Development of Web3 talent. The Ministry and the Solana Foundation will launch an educational program focused on Rust and blockchain engineering. Collaboration with universities and Astana Hub is planned.

— Attraction of international Web3 companies. Together with Forma, programs to support global startups will be implemented, including access to infrastructure and regulatory assistance. The Ministry continues to work on creating conditions for the development of advanced technologies, from artificial intelligence to blockchain — in the interests of the country's digital sovereignty and economic growth.

Source: gov.kz