Kazakhstan is pressing ahead with a bold initiative to integrate cryptocurrency into everyday payments by launching a pilot zone known as CryptoCity. President Tokayev announced the project as a sandbox for legal crypto payments at the Astana International Forum 2025.

The city of Alatau is currently the leading candidate to host CryptoCity. Recognised for its scientific research facilities and special economic zones, Alatau offers an existing technological infrastructure that makes it a strong contender.

Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan's Minister of Digital Development, said the zone would support the legal circulation of cryptocurrencies. It will operate under crypto-friendly legislation.

Officials believe the project could attract developers, programmers, and IT specialists, boosting local economic growth. Kazakhstan has already trialled a central bank digital currency, which helped to speed up VAT refund processes.

With CryptoCity now under development, the country aims to become a regional leader in blockchain innovation.

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