Kazakhstan's potential increase in the legal minimum wage
In a recent turn of events, Kazakhstan has decided to keep its minimum wage at the current level of 85,000 tenge per month (approximately $157)[1], despite earlier indications suggesting a raise. This decision was confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin in August 2025.
Previously, reports in June 2025 had suggested a potential increase of 5,000 tenge from 2026. Some sources had even anticipated a rise beyond 90,000 tenge [2][3][4]. However, recent authoritative confirmation clarifies that the raise has been scrapped due to current economic considerations.
The government had earlier indexed pensions and benefits to inflation, with an allocated budget for that purpose [1]. But the decision to keep the minimum wage unchanged indicates a careful approach to managing the economy.
The Minister of Finance, Madina Abylkassymova, stated that earlier discussions regarding the minimum wage were merely calculations, not decisions made [1]. Serik Zhumaniyazov, head of the Ministry of National Economy, emphasized that any increase in the minimum wage should be done carefully and in stages to avoid a spike in inflation and an increase in production costs [1].
The intent is for any potential increase in the minimum wage to be gradual, to manage its impact on the economy. At present, there are no new decisions regarding the minimum wage increase [1].
Here's a summary of the current status:
| Aspect | Status for 2026 | |--------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Minimum wage level | Remains at 85,000 KZT per month | | Planned increase from January 1 | Cancelled / Frozen | | Previous minimum wage increase | From 70,000 KZT to 85,000 KZT in 2024 |
While earlier reports and expectations pointed to a minimum wage increase in 2026, official and recent declarations confirm that it will be frozen at the current level [1].
[1] [Source] [2] [Source] [3] [Source] [4] [Source]
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