Kazakhstan's booming fisheries sector fuels innovation and sustainability in Atyrau

Kazakhstan’s fishing industry is growing rapidly, with around 700 fish farms now producing 26,000 tons of farmed fish each year. The sector also benefits from 20 major water bodies that yield roughly 50,000 tons of fish annually. Atyrau Region remains the centre of this expansion, driving innovation in sturgeon breeding, fish processing, and aquaculture. A recent environmental initiative saw over 3,000 young sturgeon released into the Ural River to boost fish stocks. Each fry weighed more than 3.5 grams, supporting efforts to restore local populations.

The region also hosted the 'Kazynaly Caspian' international festival in Atyrau. The event aimed to strengthen cultural ties among Caspian nations, promote tourism, and develop the fisheries sector. Alongside it, an open-air art exhibition, 'Art Beineu', displayed works inspired by the Caspian’s nature, fishing traditions, and heritage.

A major fish and seafood fair took place during the festival, showcasing local species like carp, pike-perch, asp, catfish, and sturgeon. Over 40 investment projects worth nearly 60 billion tenge are currently underway in aquaculture. One notable project involves Organic Fish using Norwegian technology to farm sea trout in the Caspian.

Serik Shapkenov, the region’s governor, emphasised Atyrau’s potential for growth, modernisation, and investment. He stressed the importance of balancing development with the preservation of the Caspian Sea’s ecosystem. Kazakhstan’s fisheries development programme through 2030 focuses on expanding aquaculture to improve food security and ease pressure on natural water bodies. With significant investments and environmental efforts, the industry is set for further expansion. The initiatives also aim to sustain the Caspian’s ecological health while boosting economic opportunities.