President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced an ambitious plan to launch “CryptoCity,” a dedicated pilot zone where cryptocurrencies can be used for everyday transactions, including payments for goods and services.
Speaking at the Astana International Forum 2025, Tokayev said the initiative aims to test the use of digital assets within a regulated sandbox environment. A full transcript of his remarks was published on the presidential website.
“We are planning to create a pioneering pilot zone called CryptoCity, where cryptocurrencies might be used for purchasing goods, services, and even beyond,” Tokayev said.
The project reflects Kazakhstan’s growing interest in blockchain technology and its efforts to position itself as a leader in the digital economy in Central Asia.
Alatau: The Future Home of Crypto city
Government officials are considering the newly developing city of Alatau as the most likely location for CryptoCity. Located near Kazakhstan’s southeastern border, Alatau is already home to scientific institutions, a nuclear research center, and the Innovation Technology Park — a special economic zone dedicated to tech development.
“Of course, the most promising place for CryptoCity is the new city of Alatau — it’s the President’s initiative,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Digital Development, in comments to Tengri News on May 29.
According to Madiyev, the goal is to integrate cryptocurrency into daily life — allowing people to pay in restaurants, cafes, purchase real estate, and even invest using digital assets.
“I believe this could be a major breakthrough for the blockchain industry,” he added.
Kazakhstan’s Crypto Momentum
CryptoCity is part of a broader strategy to embrace digital finance. In 2024, Kazakhstan launched a pilot program for its central bank digital currency (CBDC), which reportedly reduced VAT refund processing times. First Vice Minister of Digital Development Kanysh Tuleushin has also suggested that Kazakhstan could become a major regional crypto hub if regulatory barriers are eased.
Officials say CryptoCity will operate under crypto-friendly regulations, allowing the free use of digital assets as a legitimate payment method — a significant shift from traditional finance rules.
“The city itself is already under development,” Madiyev said. “CryptoCity implies free circulation of cryptocurrency, crypto-friendly legislation, and crypto as a legitimate means of payment.”
Featured image from: cointelegraph.com