Kazakhstan Unveils ‘CryptoCity’ to Pioneer Real-World Crypto Payments
Kazakhstan has announced plans to launch a pioneering regulatory pilot zone — dubbed CryptoCity — where digital currencies will be used for everyday transactions. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev shared the development during his speech at the Astana International Forum 2025 on May 29.
The project is designed as a sandbox environment to test real-world applications of cryptocurrency, including payments for goods and services. Tokayev described it as a step toward embracing financial innovation and aligning Kazakhstan with emerging trends in digital finance.
Digital Development Minister Zhaslan Madiyev revealed that Alatau — a city known for its scientific research heritage — is the front-runner to host CryptoCity. Established in 1957, Alatau is home to advanced research infrastructure, including a nuclear reactor and an experimental cyclotron.
The area also hosts the Innovation Technology Park, a designated special economic zone focused on technological advancement. Madiyev noted that the government envisions widespread crypto adoption across sectors in the city, from property transactions to dining establishments.
The CryptoCity project is part of Kazakhstan’s broader strategy to become a regional leader in blockchain innovation. Officials hope the initiative will attract international developers, blockchain investors, and digital professionals, thereby boosting local economic development.
To support this, CryptoCity would feature favourable regulations, recognising cryptocurrencies as legal tender within the zone. Madiyev emphasised the importance of aligning policy with innovation goals, calling the initiative “a transformative step for blockchain integration.”
Kazakhstan’s commitment to digital finance is growing. In 2024, the country launched a central bank digital currency (CBDC) trial, and officials have since advocated for more progressive crypto policies. First Vice Minister of Digital Development Kanysh Tuleushin recently stated that Kazakhstan could become Central Asia’s crypto hub if regulatory constraints are eased and blockchain adoption expands.
