ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Association for the Development of Artificial Intelligence, known as Qaz.AI, is collaborating with government and industry leaders to establish new regulatory frameworks for AI. The aim is to foster innovation while mitigating risks associated with manipulation, according to Temirlan Ziyatov, the association’s chairman, in an interview with The Astana Times.
In the discussion, Ziyatov highlighted the association’s role in addressing barriers faced by startups and the broader challenges within the AI sector. Qaz.AI was founded not as a formal institution but in response to specific difficulties experienced by the private sector. A case in point is the medical startup Cerebra AI, which successfully entered the U.S. market and is now seeking certification from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), known for its rigorous regulatory standards.
“Foreign investors asked a logical question: why is this solution not used in Kazakhstan, and why is it not being procured by the Ministry of Health?” Ziyatov explained. “When we began to analyze the situation, it became clear that startups face numerous barriers—from registering software as a medical device to outdated regulations that do not account for the specifics of AI. That is how the idea emerged to create an organization that would serve as a bridge between the government and business.”
The association aims to clarify regulatory processes, outline necessary stages for companies, and promote a structured approach to implementing AI technologies. “Our mission is to explain the rules of the game and promote the responsible use of AI,” Ziyatov said, noting that many startups operate with “tunnel vision,” focusing solely on their product without fully grasping regulatory and institutional constraints.
He pointed out that the association is focused on two main objectives: aiding businesses in understanding regulatory requirements, while also educating government agencies on technological specifics. “We help founders take off their rose-colored glasses. Many believe that a strong product alone is enough. In practice, there are standards, procedures, and accountability,” he added.
Kazakhstan has made strides in establishing a regulatory framework for digital technologies, being among the first countries to introduce AI legislation and develop a Digital Code. Qaz.AI actively participated in drafting these documents. Ziyatov emphasized the importance of finding a balance between regulation and market development.
“We are not reinventing the wheel. We are taking best practices from the United States, Europe, and developing countries and adapting them to our reality,” he said. “If the regulation is too strict, it can kill the market. If there is no regulation at all, distortions, manipulation, and abuse will follow. That is why we chose a middle path.” He mentioned that clear rules are needed in the market, including defined responsibilities, technology use limits, and robust human rights protections.
Special attention in the Digital Code is devoted to personal data and individuals’ rights regarding data control. Ziyatov welcomed provisions allowing citizens to request the deletion of personal information, along with stronger copyright protections and requirements for labeling AI-generated content.
As Kazakhstan strengthens its position as a potential technology hub in Central Asia, Ziyatov cautioned that rapid AI growth poses significant risks, including the potential manipulation of public opinion. “Everything depends on the logic embedded in the system. AI can amplify distortions, shape narratives, and replace reality,” he warned, stressing the essential nature of content labeling, digital literacy, and personal responsibility.
Another critical issue is the shortage of qualified personnel in the field. Ziyatov noted that Kazakhstan lacks both AI developers and educators equipped to teach the necessary skills. Officials are working to train 500 digital officers, and the association is developing programs aimed at translating leadership vision into balanced AI strategies.
“You cannot automate chaos and expect good results. First, processes must be structured and clarified. Only then can automation and digitalization be introduced,” he said.
Moreover, the association is collaborating with market participants and universities to create specialized training programs aimed at fostering practical skills and a systematic approach to digital transformation. Ziyatov emphasized that AI should address real-world problems rather than simply serve as a novelty. “There is government support and an opportunity to become a regional leader. For me, AI must develop not for show, but with real social benefit,” he concluded.
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