Maimak Free Economic Zone (Maimak FEZ): Strategic Investment Gateway on the Kyrgyz – Kazakh Border
The Maimak Free Economic Zone is one of the exclusive free economic zones (FEZs) established by the Kyrgyz Republic to promote investment, export-oriented production, and regional development.
Located in the Talas region near the Kyrgyz–Kazakh border, the Maimak FEZ lies at a key logistics crossroads linking Central Asia and neighbouring countries.
Legal & Regulatory Framework
The zone is governed under the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic “On Free Economic Zones in the Kyrgyz Republic” (December 16 1992, as amended) and by Government Resolution No. 431 of August 1 2014, which formally approves the regulations for FEZs including Maimak.
This regulation sets out the rights, duties and incentives for resident companies operating within the FEZ.
Location & Strategic Advantages
- Maimak FEZ is positioned in the Talas region along the border with Kazakhstan, offering access to both domestic Kyrgyz markets and transit routes into Kazakhstan and beyond.
- The border‐adjacent location allows for streamlined cross‐border trade and potential participation in Kazakhstan or Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) supply chains.
- Infrastructure development projects within Maimak FEZ target key sectors such as oil refining, agro-processing and logistics, thus enhancing its strategic value.
Investment Incentives & Benefits
Companies that become residents of Maimak FEZ enjoy a number of favorable terms and exemptions, including:
- Exemption from many taxes, duties, fees and charges for the duration of residence in the FEZ.
- Simplified customs procedures and easier entry/exit conditions for foreign employees.
- Reduced import tariffs on equipment, raw materials and goods intended for production and export within the zone. For example, a project website reports “zero VAT on imported equipment, goods, and materials intended for use in the SEZ, and a 0.15 % customs duty on all HS-codes entering or leaving the zone”.
- Streamlined registration and licensing process for foreign-invested entities.
Key Focus Industries
Given its geographical and resource advantage, Maimak FEZ targets sectors such as:
- Petrochemicals and oil refining (notably since certain companies have located key refinery and processing projects in the zone)
- Agro-processing, grain elevators and feed production (as part of broader industrial development)
- Light manufacturing, export-oriented production and logistics for regional trade flows
How to Establish Your Business in Maimak FEZ
1. Submit an application to the Administration of Maimak FEZ along with a business plan and investment proposal.
2. Sign an agreement on residence in the FEZ and obtain a registration certificate as a FEZ resident.
3. Register your legal entity in Kyrgyzstan (via Ministry of Justice) and secure the required business licence.
4. Commence operations, leverage the tax and customs incentives, and proceed with production or export activities.
Why Choose Maimak FEZ?
- Border location offers strategic access to both Kazakhstan and Central Asian markets.
- Competitive incentive package and strong legal base for investors.
- Opportunity to participate in large-scale strategic projects (e.g., oil refining, agro-industry) within Kyrgyzstan’s export agenda.
-Good potential for cost-efficient manufacturing or processing operations given location and incentives.
Recent Developments
According to a 2024 report, Kyrgyzstan’s FEZs (including Maimak) contributed "2.5 billion soms" to the national budget. The government continues to promote these zones to attract foreign investment from more than 25 countries.
Last Updated: October 2025