On February 18, 2026, Law No. 266-VIII of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Issues of Support and Development of Creative Industries” was adopted.

The document is aimed at strengthening the institutional framework of the creative economy and systematizing the mechanisms of state support for industry representatives.

Within the framework of the Law, a Register of Creative Industry Entities is being established. This is an online platform for the registration and record-keeping of individuals and legal entities engaged in creative activities. The Register will be administered by the authorized state body and will make it possible to:

• systematize entities operating in the creative sector;
• increase the transparency of the industry;
• provide state support measures efficiently and in a targeted manner;
• monitor the development dynamics of the creative industries.

This initiative marks a new stage in supporting the creative economy. The Law grants the authorized body the powers to establish and maintain the Register of Creative Industry Entities, as well as to monitor the process of attracting private investment within the framework of state co-financing. These provisions are aimed at strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors and increasing investment activity.

In addition, local executive bodies (Akimats) are granted the authority to create favorable conditions for the development of creative entrepreneurship, recognize creative citizens and talents, and facilitate the realization of their potential.

Furthermore, the rights of employees engaged in the creative industries are закреплены at the legislative level.

In Kazakhstan, the Rules for State Support and Stimulation of Creative Industry Entities have been approved.

The new document establishes a systematic and transparent approach to the development of the sector and covers the entire life cycle of creative projects — from idea generation and pilot solutions to entry into international markets and commercialization. The Rules place particular emphasis on a repayable financing mechanism. State support is focused on ensuring the sustainability and economic viability of projects. The share of grant-based financing will be minimized, while active attraction of private investment is envisaged. This approach enables the development of creative initiatives based on market principles and enhances the sector’s investment attractiveness.

Within the framework of the Rules, the following financial instruments are :

• financing and co-financing of creative and pilot projects;
• implementation of joint initiatives with private investors;
• support for the export of creative products;
• reimbursement of costs related to the registration and legal protection of intellectual property objects;
• support for participation in international creative competitions and events;
• provision of awards for achievements at the international level.

These instruments are aimed at increasing project competitiveness and promoting Kazakhstani creative products in the global market.

The document also provides for a wide range of non-financial support measures, including:

• advisory, acceleration, and educational support;
• facilitation of participation in international cultural and creative platforms;
• provision of premises and equipment on preferential terms;
• development of digital services and online platforms;
• marketing and legal support for projects;
• development of regional strategies for creative industry development;
• measures to ensure inclusion;
• special programs for specific segments of the sector.

These measures will strengthen the creative entrepreneurship ecosystem and ensure balanced development at the regional level.

The adoption of the Rules establishes an institutional foundation for transforming the creative industry into a fully-fledged sector of the economy that generates added value, creates new jobs, and strengthens the country’s export potential.

Thus, the creative industry is defined as a strategic direction contributing to the diversification of Kazakhstan’s economy and its innovative development.