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Inflation Soars in Kazakhstan

Writer's picture: Aiana ZhulmukhambetovaAiana Zhulmukhambetova

Updated: Feb 1, 2024




Inflation, is a multifaceted phenomenon. While it often indicates a growing economy, it can have a detrimental impact on the lives of everyday citizens. As prices of goods and services steadily rise, the purchasing power of consumers diminishes. People are required to allocate a larger portion of their income to cover basic necessities, leaving less room for savings and investment. This can lead to a reduction in the overall standard of living and can disproportionately affect lower-income households.


In the context of Kazakhstan, the recent surge in inflation has likely caused significant concerns for its citizens. The rising prices of food products, non-food items, and paid services in different regions of the country are a clear indication that the problem is not uniform but varies from place to place. These disparities can result in an unequal burden on different segments of the population, making the need for effective policy measures even more pressing.

 

The Current Landscape of Inflation


Inflation has been steadily on the rise in Kazakhstan, with the first quarter of 2022 witnessing a sharp increase. According to the Committee on Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the overall inflation rate in the country reached 8.4% in the first quarter of 2022. This is a substantial increase when compared to the 7.2% inflation rate recorded in the same period of the previous year. These figures indicate that the issue of inflation is one that cannot be ignored.


One of the primary drivers of this inflation surge is the global economic environment. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted supply chains and created shortages in various sectors, leading to higher prices for both imported and domestically produced goods. Rising energy costs and increased transportation expenses have also played a role, further exacerbating the cost of living for Kazakhstan's citizens.


Beyond these external factors, Kazakhstan faces unique challenges within its domestic economy. The nation's heavy reliance on oil and gas exports has historically linked its economic stability to global energy prices. Fluctuations in these commodity prices can have cascading effects, leading to imbalances in the national economy.


In addition to the general inflation rate, regional disparities are evident. Prices for food products increased the most in the West Kazakhstan region by 1.8%, non-food products in the Almaty region by 3.0%, and paid services in the Turkestan region by 2.3%. These regional variations highlight the complexities of managing inflation at a national level.


The Connection Between Inflation and Currency Devaluation


In Kazakhstan, inflation has always been closely connected with the devaluation of the national currency, the tenge. This connection has been evident throughout the nation's economic history, dating back to the 1990s and most recently in 2015. As Vyacheslav Dodonov, chief researcher at the Kazakh Institute for Strategic Studies, explains, "To a large extent, the current price dynamics are due to the devaluation of the tenge in the first quarter of 2022."


Devaluation of the national currency can trigger inflation by increasing the cost of imported goods and services, which are priced in foreign currencies. This, in turn, can lead to higher prices for domestic goods as well, as businesses experience increased production costs. To mitigate these effects, Kazakhstan must focus on the activities of financial regulators and the effectiveness of monetary policy.


Monetary Policy as a Solution


To address the challenge of inflation, the effectiveness of monetary policy becomes paramount. As highlighted by Dodonov, this is an area where Kazakhstan must focus its efforts. Monetary policy refers to the management of the money supply, interest rates, and other financial instruments by a central bank to control inflation and support economic growth. Adjusting monetary policy can help stabilize the value of the national currency, which, in turn, can help manage inflation. The central bank, the National Bank of Kazakhstan, plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing policies that can control inflation and ensure economic stability.


However, the challenge lies in striking the right balance. Aggressively tightening monetary policy can effectively combat inflation but may also slow economic growth and job creation. Conversely, a loose monetary policy can stimulate economic activity but may exacerbate inflationary pressures. Policymakers must carefully calibrate their response to ensure inflation remains within acceptable limits without stifling economic development.


 

Inflation in Kazakhstan is a complex issue with regional disparities and historical ties to currency devaluation. While inflation can be a sign of a growing economy, excessive inflation can lead to adverse consequences for consumers and businesses alike. The rise in inflation in the first quarter of 2022 underscores the need for a proactive approach to managing the nation's economic stability.


In this context, effective monetary policy, as pointed out by Vyacheslav Dodonov, becomes a vital tool to combat inflation. By addressing the root causes of inflation and maintaining a stable currency, Kazakhstan can better manage the challenges posed by rising prices, thereby ensuring a healthier economic outlook for the nation and its citizens.

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