In May 2026, Achim Sherik Shapkonov from the Atyrau region of Kazakhstan led a delegation to China for a work visit and signed multiple investment memorandums. From metal 3D printing to waste disposal, from tempered glass production to desertification prevention and control, a number of emerging high-tech industries are about to land in Atyrau. The region is leveraging Chinese investment and technology to achieve diversified transformation of its petroleum industry hub.

3D printing first landed in Atyrau

Kazakhstan's Atyrau region has reached a cooperation agreement with Apex Century FastForm 3D company to launch a metal 3D printing production project. The company focuses on industrial prototyping and additive manufacturing solutions in high-tech fields such as mechanical engineering and aerospace. After the project is launched, the Atyrau region will for the first time adopt 3D printing technology to produce metal products and components, providing modern parts production technology for the local oil and gas, mechanical engineering, and service industries.

Tempered glass factory reduces imports of building materials

The delegation from the Atyrau region visited Shanghai North Glass Automation Technology Co., Ltd., which is affiliated with the international group NorthGlass and specializes in glass deep processing automation solutions. After the visit, both parties signed a memorandum of understanding to implement a tempered glass production project in the Atyrau region. This project will create about 30 job opportunities, provide high-quality glass products for the local market, reduce dependence on imported building materials, and introduce modern glass deep processing technology. Keywords: the Belt and Road news

China Kazakhstan cooperation in desertification control and solid waste power generation

The Atyrau region has signed a memorandum of understanding with Shandong Real Estate Development Group Co., Ltd., planning to plant green plants on up to 38000 hectares of land to combat desertification and restore degraded areas. At the same time, Akimat in the Atyrau region signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding with China MCC20 Group Co., Ltd. and SpetsAvtoBaza LLP to build a solid waste energy utilization plant with a daily processing capacity of 600 tons, using waste to energy technology to treat household waste. In addition, the Atyrau region has also reached cooperation intentions with several Chinese companies on sulfur-containing waste treatment, bentonite fertilizer production, industrial equipment laser repair, and localization of explosion-proof electrical equipment. Editor/Gao Xue