What is AIFC

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is the #1 Financial Centre in Eastern Europe and Central Asian Region, and a dynamic hub for innovation and growth.

Why AIFC

Businesses thrive in an environment that helps them attract capital in an enabling environment with regulation based on the best international standards,
robust financial framework and an independent judicial system.

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History

2015 – 2017

Establishment of the AIFC

Identification of key strategic directions and development of legal framework

2018 – 2022

Development of the AIFC

A defining period for the AIFC, gaining global prominence and fostering a thriving business community

2023 and forward

Steady progress

AIFC: aligned, efficient, innovative, customer-focused

We are here

What we believe in

Vision
Our vision is to be the key force and central hub creating and fostering favourable conditions for investments and businesses. We’re committed to strengthening the financial industry, driving economic growth by mobilising capital and attracting investments, and setting new benchmarks for professional services.

Mission
Our mission is to establish and operate a supportive legal and regulatory environment for investment, providing a comprehensive set of talent, products, platforms and capabilities to empower investors and businesses within the financial industry.  

Objectives
1. Establish a framework for facilitating transactions and foster a conducive environment to attract investments to Kazakhstan’s economy.
2. Enhance the integration of the securities market with global capital markets.
3. Promote the growth of the insurance and banking sectors, along with fostering green and social finance, Islamic finance, digital assets, financial technologies, and innovative projects.
4. Cultivate financial expertise and professional services in alignment with leading international practices.
5. Achieve international recognition as a financial centre.

Values
Accountability: Accepting ownership of our decisions and their consequences and taking responsibility for our commitments, actions and results.
Integrity: As individuals, our personal integrity means that others can trust us and know that we are honest, fair and forthright. We are committed to making unbiased decisions that serve our business needs and the interests of everyone with whom we do business.
Focus on the Future: We plan for our future and always think one step ahead.
Collaboration: We have sound teamwork and effective, efficient vertical and horizontal communications within the AIFC community.

Global standing

The Global Financial Centres Index
1st in the GFCI ranking in the Central Asia and Eastern Europe Region

The Global Green Finance Index
1st in the GGFI ranking in the Central Asia and Eastern Europe Region

Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
In 2023, AIFC successfully underwent an audit for compliance with international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The results of the assessment not only impact financial stability in the country but also enhance its image for foreign investors, contributing to Kazakhstan’s position in international ratings.

Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
In 2022, the regulation in AIFC was acknowledged as compliant with the tax transparency standards of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This recognition marked a significant step in demonstrating AIFC and Kazakhstan’s adherence to global standards of transparency, including tax transparency.

International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO)

International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS)

Group of Banking Supervisors from Central and Eastern Europe (BSCEE)

Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Finance Institution (AAOIFI)

World Federation of Exchanges (WFE)

General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI)

Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFOCC)

International Arbitration Centre Alliance (IACA)

Financial Centres for Sustainability (FC4S)

Green Growth Knowledge Partnership (GGKP)

Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI)

WORLD ALLIANCE OF INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTERS (WAIFC)