Kazakhstan has announced the creation of CryptoCity, a groundbreaking pilot zone where residents will be able to use cryptocurrency for everyday transactions—including real estate purchases, dining, and investments.
The initiative was unveiled by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the Astana International Forum 2025, where he described it as a bold step toward integrating digital currencies into daily life through a controlled and secure regulatory environment. CryptoCity is part of Kazakhstan’s broader strategy to modernize its financial system and become a major player in the global digital economy.
Alatau Set to Become Kazakhstan’s CryptoCity
The city of Alatau has been named the leading candidate to host CryptoCity. Known as a center for science and technology, Alatau is already home to the Innovation Technology Park, making it a strategic choice for fostering blockchain development and attracting global tech talent.
Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Digital Development, confirmed that within the CryptoCity zone, cryptocurrency will be recognized as a legal form of payment. This means that residents and businesses will be able to use digital currencies for a wide range of everyday transactions—something that’s rarely been implemented at this scale worldwide.
Legal Framework Underway to Support Innovation
To ensure the success of CryptoCity, the Kazakh government is actively developing a crypto-friendly regulatory framework. The goal is to provide legal clarity and a secure environment for both consumers and investors, encouraging local innovation and attracting foreign companies.
With the city already under development, efforts are focused on building the infrastructure and legislation needed to support digital assets. Officials believe that this pilot zone could position Kazakhstan as a leading blockchain hub in Central Asia, setting an example for other nations looking to adopt cryptocurrency more broadly.
CryptoCity Kazakhstan represents a forward-thinking approach to finance, aiming to bring the use of cryptocurrency from niche markets into the mainstream economy—safely, legally, and efficiently.