Objective: The 13th CATF is set to concentrate on expanding the conventional boundaries of regional trade by delving into the potential, challenges, and innovations that will shape the future of trade in the Central Asia Region. The forum will actively explore new trade markets, identify opportunities within value chains, discuss the digitalization of customs and logistics, and delve into various aspects of trade regulation, including regional trade agreements (RTAs), World Trade Organization (WTO) standards, harmonization, and other relevant standards.
Event Format: In-person (with accessible online streaming)
Location: May 14–15, 2024, Rixos Hotel Almaty, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Luis Rivera, Regional Mission Director of USAID/Central Asia invites you to attend the 13th Annual Central Asia Trade Forum, one of the most significant events promoting trade and connectivity in the region.
For over twelve years, it has earned recognition as this region’s premier platform for trade policy dialogue and business connectivity.
SPECIALIZED EVENTS
B2B AND TRADE EXHIBITION
The trade exhibition running concurrently with CATF, will feature 40 companies from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. In partnership with Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade and Integration and Almaty Chamber of Commerce and Investment, it will showcase agricultural, textile, apparel, and food products. The pre-matched B2B session will be running in parallel to the exhibition.
PAKISTAN-KAZAKHSTAN TRADE OPPORTUNITIES FORUM FOR WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES
USAID Pakistan Regional Economic Integration Activity (PREIA) is organizing the “Pakistan-Kazakhstan Trade Opportunities Forum for Women-owned Businesses” in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from May 10-17, 2024. The purpose of the Forum is to provide businesswomen with greater access and exposure to potential trade opportunities in Central Asia, with a specific focus on Kazakhstan. This initiative aims to support approximately 40 Pakistani businesswomen in gathering market-relevant information, identifying potential trade opportunities, and strengthening direct Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Government (B2G) linkages with counterparts in Kazakhstan. The overarching goal of the activity is to assist women-owned businesses in exploring new markets in Central Asia and expanding their product/market diversification in regional markets.
THE 11TH REGIONAL MEETING OF THE NATIONAL TRADE FACILITATION COMMITTEES (NTFCS) OF CENTRAL ASIAN COUNTRIES
On May 15, 2024, the 11th Regional Meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs) of Central Asian countries will take place during the Central Asian Trade Forum. Executive authorities from five partner countries overseeing customs, transport, phytosanitary and veterinary border control, along with private sector representatives will participate. Supported by the regional project ‘Trade Facilitation in Central Asia’, implemented by GIZ, and commissioned by the German government, the meeting will focus on unveiling Regional Initiatives and Roadmaps for Central Asia, along with innovative solutions for simplifying trade procedures. Highlights include roadmaps for digitalizing of data exchange and expansion of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, implementation of the ‘ePhyto’ system for issuing phytosanitary certificates, and other digital solutions. NTFCs are expected to develop a Joint Action Plan to streamline trade procedures throughout the region.
May 14 (Tuesday)
May 15 (Wednesday)
May 14 (Tuesday)
8:30 – 9:30
Participants’ registration
9:30 – 10:15
BALLROOM 2
OPENING AND PLENARY SESSION “NAVIGATING TRADE REGULATIONS”
This session addresses the complexities and nuances of trade regulations in the region. This session will provide a deep dive into the evolving regulatory landscape, offering participants key insights into compliance, risk management, and legal considerations. Regulatory authorities will guide attendees through the intricacies of trade policies, tariffs, and documentation requirements, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory environment in Central Asia.
Moderator: Ruslan Sultanov, Chairman, Economic Research Institute
Keynote Speakers:
- Zeinah Zeinah Salahi, Senior Deputy Assistant Administrator of USAID’s Asia Bureau in Washington, D.C.
- Kairat Torebayev, Vice-Minister, Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Dr. Abdulla Khashimov, Advisor, Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan
- Yrysbek Bariev, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Kyrgyz Republic
- Myrat Myradov, Head of Department for Legal Regulation and Coordination of Foreign Economic Relations, Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations of Turkmenistan
10:15 – 10:30
COFFEE BREAK
10:30 – 12:00
BALLROOM 2
SESSION 1: UNVEILING NEW MARKETS [PART 1]
This session is dedicated to exploring uncharted business territories. This focused discussion will examine emerging sectors, trade routes, and investment frontiers within Central Asia. Attendees can expect deep insights into market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and strategic entry points. The session aims to uncover hidden opportunities, offering a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the Central Asian markets. Expert speakers will share their perspectives on cross-border collaborations, unlocking growth potential, and addressing challenges unique to the region.
Moderator: Kati Suominen, Senior E-Commerce Advisor, USAID FGI
Keynote Speakers:
- Gregory Lecomte, Head of Central Asia Unit, OECD Global Relations and Co-operation Directorate
- Mikheil Janelidze, Trade Sector Lead/Senior Consultant, USAID TCA
- Nurlan Kulbatyrov, Deputy Director General, QazTrade
- Javlon Vakhabov, Director, International Institute for Central Asia
- Jeffrey Grieco, Senior Advisor, USAID TCA
- Ekrem Cunedioglu, Program Director, Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey
12:00 – BALLROOM 1
TRADE EXHIBITION OPENING CEREMONY
12:30 – 13:30
Lunch
13:30 – 14:30
Ballroom 2
SESSION 1: UNVEILING NEW MARKETS [PART 2]
This is a continuation of Session 1.
This session explores opportunities and strategies for accessing new markets. Through this session, participants will gain practical examples illustrating how traders can leverage their strengths and capitalize on emerging opportunities in diverse industries..
Moderator: Kati Suominen, Senior E-Commerce Advisor, USAID FGI
Keynote Speakers:
- Dauren Ibraimov, Head of Almaty office, AIFC, Opportunities at AIFC to accelerate export: legal environment and infrastructure
- Nail Khaibulin, CEO and Managing Partner, M-Vector
- Yelena Bychkova, Managing Director, Digital Kazakhstan Association, Regulation of Electronic Trade
- Jeffrey Grieco, Senior Advisor, USAID TCA, Product Adaptation and Localization
14:30 – 14:45
Coffee Break
14:45 – 16:15
Ballroom 2
SESSION 2: TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS OPTIMIZATION
This session is a pivotal discussion focused on enhancing efficiency and connectivity within the region. This session will delve into strategies for streamlining transport and logistics operations, exploring innovative technologies, and addressing infrastructure challenges. Industry experts and thought leaders will share valuable insights on supply chain optimization, cross-border transportation, and the latest advancements in logistics management. Participants can anticipate a comprehensive exploration of best practices, regulatory considerations, and collaborative solutions aimed at fostering a resilient and agile transport ecosystem in Central Asia. This session will be an essential platform for professionals keen on maximizing the potential of regional connectivity and ensuring seamless trade and commerce across Central Asia.
Moderator: Asset Assavbayev, Secretary General, TRACECA Intergovernmental Commission
Keynote Speakers:
- Sapar Bektassov, Director of Department of Transport Policy, Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Rony Saab, Transport and Logistics Expert, EBRD
- Gaidar Abdikerimov, Secretary General, International Association “Trans-Caspian International Transport Route”
- Tengiz Varshanidze, Operations Director, Batumi Sea Port
- Kanat Kobessov, CEO, Nurzhol Company
- Dmitriy Chubenko, Association of International Road Carriers of Uzbekistan (AIRCUZ)
- Abdulvakhid Abdukhalikov, General Director, TransTurkiston Company
- Yerlan Absatov, USAID TCA, Central Asia Trade Map (CATMAP)
May 15 (Wednesday)
parallel sessions
10:00 – 14:00
(Parallel session)
Ballroom 1
B2B AND CONTINUATION OF TRADE EXHIBITION
Participants will have an opportunity to explore the forefront of innovation at the exhibition, where leading companies from Central Asia will showcase their products in the food and textile industries. The pre-matched B2B session will be running in parallel to the exhibition.
10:00 – 12:00
(Parallel session)
Ballroom 2
Pakistan-Kazakhstan Trade Opportunities Forum for Women-Owned Businesses
USAID Pakistan Regional Economic Integration Activity (PREIA) will host the “Pakistan-Kazakhstan Trade Opportunities Forum for Women-owned Businesses”. The forum aims to connect Pakistani women-owned businesses with trade opportunities in Central Asia, focusing on Kazakhstan. Participants will engage in sessions designed to help them gather market information, identify potential business partners, build B2B and B2G linkages, explore new markets in Central Asia, and expand their product/market diversification.
09:00 – 17:00
(Parallel session)
BALLROOM 3
The regional meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs) of Central Asian countries (by invitation)
The main goal of the meeting is to ensure effective and sustainable cooperation within the framework of the Regional Platform of National Trade Facilitation Committees of Central Asian countries. The meeting will provide a platform to discuss the national and regional plans for implementation of trade facilitation measures, including presentation of National Roadmaps for the implementation of the WTO TFA in the Central Asian countries and discussion of priority areas within the framework of regional cooperation of NTFCs.
PARTNERS
MEDIA PARTNERS
