Kazakhstan Announces CryptoCity Pilot Zone for Digital Payments”
Kazakhstan is taking a bold step toward becoming a regional leader in digital finance with the launch of “CryptoCity,” a regulatory pilot zone that will enable cryptocurrency payments for goods and services. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced the initiative on May 29 during his address at the Astana International Forum 2025, as reported by Cointelegraph.
“This pioneering pilot zone will allow cryptocurrencies to be used for purchasing goods, services—and potentially more,” Tokayev stated. The project reflects Kazakhstan’s growing commitment to digital innovation and follows the successful rollout of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) pilot in 2024.
Alatau Tapped as Leading Candidate for CryptoCity
According to Digital Development Minister Zhaslan Madiyev, the government is strongly considering Alatau as the site for CryptoCity. Founded in 1957 as a hub for scientific research, Alatau is home to several major institutions, including a nuclear reactor and an experimental cyclotron.
The area also hosts the Innovation Technology Park, a special economic zone dedicated to advancing technological development. Madiyev said the vision is to make cryptocurrency usage common across the city—from buying property to dining at local restaurants—positioning CryptoCity as a natural evolution of Alatau’s tech-driven identity.
Building a Regional Blockchain Powerhouse
Kazakhstan aims to transform CryptoCity into a magnet for global blockchain talent, including developers, investors, and IT professionals. The zone will feature crypto-friendly legislation and formally recognize digital assets as legitimate payment methods, helping to cultivate a robust ecosystem for innovation.
“CryptoCity represents free circulation of cryptocurrency, supportive legislation, and recognition of digital assets as a legal means of payment,” Madiyev explained, calling it “a major breakthrough for the blockchain industry.”
Government officials stress that aligning regulatory frameworks with innovation is key to the project’s success.
A Strategic Push Toward Crypto Leadership in Central Asia
The announcement comes amid broader efforts by Kazakhstan to strengthen its position in the global crypto economy. Kanysh Tuleushin, the country’s first vice minister of digital development, recently stated that Kazakhstan could emerge as Central Asia’s leading crypto hub—if it lifts existing restrictions on digital asset trading and continues expanding blockchain-friendly policies.
With CryptoCity on the horizon, Kazakhstan is signaling its intent to lead the region in digital finance innovation, fostering a dynamic environment for blockchain development and economic growth.
Disclaimer and Risk Warning
coinweck does not endorse or is responsible for any content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products, or other materials on this page. The image used in this article is for informational purposes only and is provided to us by a third party. coinweck should not be held responsible for image copyright issues. Contact us if you have any issues or concerns. Readers should do their research before taking any actions related to the company.