Kazakhstan Machinery Fair and ONDEU EXPO 2025: Growth, Partnerships, and the Pursuit of Technological Leadership
As Kazakhstan intensifies efforts to strengthen technological sovereignty and industrial efficiency, manufacturing continues to play a strategic role in the country’s sustainable development. This commitment was clearly demonstrated at the 6th Kazakhstan Machinery Fair and 5th ONDEU EXPO for Processing Industries, held from April 23–25 at the EXPO International Exhibition Center in Astana.
Over the course of three days, the exhibition center became a vital meeting point for machinery manufacturers, equipment suppliers, engineering firms, technology providers, government representatives, and international partners.
A total of 294 companies from 24 countries participated, while the event welcomed 3,865 professional visitors. The exhibition space exceeded 10,000 sq m, marking a record in the event’s history. Dozens of business meetings and negotiations took place throughout the event.
The 2025 edition saw significant growth: the number of exhibitors increased by 38%, and professional visitors by 25%year-on-year. These results reflect growing interest in Kazakhstan as an emerging industrial hub and regional technology center.
Official Opening
The opening ceremony took place on April 23, bringing together key government and industry figures. Among the distinguished guests were Yersayin Nagaspayev, Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Martin Frélich, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic; Meiram Pshembaev, Chairman of the Association of Kazakhstan Machinery Industry; Markus Geisenberger, CEO of Leipziger Messe International; and Kuanysh Kanapyanov, Executive Director of Astana Expo.
In his address, Yersayin Nagaspayev emphasized the strategic importance of the sector for the national economy:
“Mechanical engineering is the backbone of the country’s industrial potential. Today, it accounts for 19% of the manufacturing sector. Last year, the industry recorded a 9.7% growth, and this year we are targeting 16%.”
Exposition: From Machinery to Digital Solutions
The exhibition showcased a comprehensive range of equipment and solutions — from metalworking machines, welding systems, and robotics to industrial 3D printers, automation components, engineering platforms, and corrosion protection technologies. It also featured innovations for the metallurgy, chemical, and construction industries, as well as developments in additive manufacturing and engineering services.
Key exhibitors included Hyundai WIA, CHIRON Group SE, KAMAZ, QazTehna, ALLUR, ISCAR Kazakhstan, Bodor, XT Laser, Zoller, KAPP NILES, IGM Robotersysteme, Robentex, SMWAutoblok, HORN, Welding Company, Motul, and many others. Local companies demonstrated their growing technological expertise and export potential.
Particular attention was drawn to the German national pavilion, which included collective stands from the federal states of Saxony and Thuringia. National expositions from Turkey, Austria, Italy, and China also contributed to the event’s international scope.
Participants praised the high professional level of the exhibition:
Sergey Starkov, Weld Expert:
“Our main goal was to showcase the capabilities of our equipment, introduce new products, and connect with new clients — and we fully achieved that. This year, we presented our largest stand ever, and it proved to be highly effective. In my view, this was one of the most dynamic and productive editions yet. Today, Kazakhstan Machinery Fair is the flagship event for the entire mechanical engineering sector in Kazakhstan.”
Alexandra Fedotova, AKXIM:
“We are grateful to the exhibition for offering such extensive opportunities for communication. We were able to meet many companies in person and present our full product range in action. Visitors came well-prepared, asking targeted questions and knowing exactly what they were looking for. The event was very well organized, with clear navigation, thoughtful zoning, and a well-designed layout. Special thanks to the organizers for creating a truly comfortable experience.”
Strategic Focus: Visit by the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan
A key highlight of the second day was the visit of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Olzhas Bektenov. He toured the exhibition, engaged in discussions with business representatives, and delivered a keynote address at the 12th Forum of Machine Builders of Kazakhstan.
In his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the strategic role of the mechanical engineering sector in driving national economic growth. He outlined key priorities, including localization of production, adoption of advanced technologies, and the development of a highly qualified engineering workforce.
“To further advance the mechanical engineering sector, we must expand local production. Amid global economic volatility, new opportunities are emerging for promising industries. I am confident that Kazakhstan’s engineering sector will fully realize its potential and provide powerful momentum for the growth of our national economy,”
stated Olzhas Bektenov.
As part of the forum, the Prime Minister also held negotiations with representatives of Chinese industrial associations. Discussions focused on launching joint ventures, localizing high-tech production, and facilitating the transfer of engineering solutions. The Chinese side expressed strong interest in investing in Kazakhstan’s machinery sector and enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Business Program
The 12th Forum of Machine Builders of Kazakhstan, held on April 24–25, brought together over 1,500 participants from more than 20 countries. The program included a plenary session, five panel discussions, and seven breakout sessions. Key topics included: government support measures, digitalization of manufacturing, export development, subcontracting, localization, and the advancement of engineering education.
Special attention was drawn to the Kazakhstan–Austria Business Council meeting, organized with the participation of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber. The session served as an important platform for discussing bilateral industrial cooperation and launching joint projects. Participants included Philipp Gady, Vice President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber; Meiram Pshembaev, Chairman of the Association of Kazakhstan Machinery Industry; as well as high-level officials from both countries — Roman Vassilenko, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, and Andrea Bacher.
Audience Profile
According to data collected during registration, 85.3% of attendees are either decision-makers or directly involved in procurement processes. Overall, the visitor profile was as follows:
•35.8% – Owners and Chief Executive Officers
•17.6% – Mid-level Managers
•15.9% – Engineers and Technologists
•5.8% – Top-level Executives
88% of visitors highly rated the exposition, business agenda, and exhibitor composition. Primary visit goals included supplier sourcing, technology scouting, contract negotiations, and knowledge exchange.
Ilya Afanasyev, Vaptech Corporation:
“This event showcases cutting-edge technologies from both local and global manufacturers. It was highly valuable for business networking and discovering new partners.”
Alexey Shcherbinin, KSC Plast:
“This year’s show has clearly grown — more exhibitors, and a notable increase in Chinese companies. The exhibition featured a wide range of new equipment for production facilities. I’ve been attending for 7–8 years — and it keeps delivering.”
International Cooperation
Among the key international activities was the networking session “Singapore – Kazakhstan: Engineering Solutions and Smart Cities”, which featured 11 Singaporean tech companies presenting solutions in urban development, digital infrastructure, and sustainable city planning.
The exhibition also hosted B2B meetings between the German delegation and Kazakh government bodies. Meanwhile, the Czech delegation, led by Deputy Minister Martin Frélich, held several meetings focused on industrial cooperation and production localization in Kazakhstan.
Exhibition as an Industrial Benchmark
Kazakhstan Machinery Fair and ONDEU EXPO 2025 showcased not only the latest industrial technologies, but also the strategic importance of dialogue between government, business, and international partners.
The event served as a launchpad for export strategies, localization initiatives, new industrial alliances, and international collaborations — solidifying Kazakhstan’s position as a leading platform for technology transfer and industrial growth in Central Asia.
Organizers and Support
Organizers: Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Association of Kazakhstan Machinery Industry, Astana Expo
Co-Organizer: Leipziger Messe International (Germany)
Official Support: Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs, Akimat of Astana, Visit Astana
📍 Venue: EXPO International Exhibition Center, 53/1 Mangilik El Ave., Astana