Kazakhstan Targets 40 Million Tons of Annual Refining Capacity by 2040

The country currently operates with an annual capacity of 18 million tons. Under the government's 2025-2040 development roadmap, officials plan to add 11 million tons through facility expansions, supplemented by a 10-million-ton boost from a new plant slated for completion. Vice Minister of Energy Kaiyrkhan Tutkyshbayev previously indicated that this new refinery should come online by 2033 to stabilize supply and transition the nation into a net fuel exporter.

Beyond domestic supply security, the ministry expects the infrastructure overhaul to diversify petroleum product output and foster a robust petrochemical sector. Last year, Kazakhstan produced 15.47 million tons of fuel, slightly exceeding official targets, with a similar production volume projected for the current cycle. While the strategy prioritizes internal growth, the nation remains cautious regarding external commitments. Reports suggest Astana has resisted pressure to export fuel to Russia to mitigate regional shortages, citing both record domestic demand and the risks associated with secondary sanctions.