Kazakhstan is set to welcome a new sugar factory in the Atyrau Region. Spearheaded by Goldbridge International, the project is slated to commence construction soon and is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026. With an annual production capacity of 144,000 tons, the factory aims to significantly reduce the country's reliance on sugar imports.

The ambitious project comes with a hefty price tag of 58 billion tenge ($112.9 million), with a substantial 80% of the funding being provided by a Chinese investor.

Beyond its economic implications, the factory is poised to create 200 much-needed jobs in the region, providing a welcome boost to local employment.

A key factor in the factory's success will be the steady supply of raw materials. To meet its production targets, the factory will require approximately 900,000 tons of sugar beets or cane annually. To this end, Goldbridge International has already initiated discussions with a local Atyrau company with the capacity to cultivate the necessary beets.

The new sugar factory represents a significant step towards Kazakhstan's goal of achieving self-sufficiency in essential food commodities. By increasing domestic sugar production, the country can reduce its dependence on imports, stabilize prices, and enhance its food security.

The project also holds promise for the broader agricultural sector in the Atyrau Region. The increased demand for sugar beets will stimulate local farming, creating new opportunities for agricultural businesses and farmers. This, in turn, could lead to further investments in agricultural infrastructure and technology, driving the region's overall economic development.

The project has garnered strong support from local authorities, who recognize its potential to transform the region's agricultural sector. Serik Shapkenov, the akim (mayor) of the Atyrau Region, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing that Kazakhstan currently imports a staggering 90% of its sugar. He pledged the region's full support for the project's implementation, highlighting the suitability of Atyrau's land for beet cultivation.

"This is an essential and impactful project for us," said Shapkenov. "The land in Atyrau is perfect for beet cultivation, and I believe this project will not only meet domestic demand but also contribute to the growth of our agricultural sector. We are prepared to provide all necessary infrastructure."

As Kazakhstan looks towards a future of greater self-reliance and economic diversification, the new sugar factory stands as a symbol of progress and a testament to the country's commitment to developing its agricultural potential. With construction set to begin soon, the people of Atyrau and the entire nation eagerly await the sweet rewards of this ambitious endeavor.