Two biggest Central Asian economies may become competitors if both are in the Eurasian Economic Union. For now, as Uzbek President expresses disinterest in joining the union, the bilateral cooperation and ties are strengthening.
Kazakhstani enterprises find themselves under increasing pressure with cheap products being imported from Russia. Some are calling for customs duties on the border between the Kazakhstan and Russia to be reintroduced.
China has been increasing its presence in the oil and gas sector of Kazakhstan. There is no consensus on whether this is a positive or a worrying development.
Deputy Prie Minister of Kazakhstan Bakytzhan Sagintayev said that Kazakhstan's accession to the World Trade Organisation was hampered by two countries - Ukraine and Mongolia.