Savory Snacks Market in Kazakhstan: Almaty vs Other Regions

Almaty vs. Other Regions: Who Really Dominates the Savory Snacks Market in Kazakhstan

The Almaty Region is positioning itself as the most promising and profitable area within Kazakhstan’s savory snacks market. With a Gross Regional Product (GRP) of approximately ?5.9 trillion (US$12.4 billion) in 2024 and a notable per capita GDP of ?3.83 million, this region enjoys substantial consumer purchasing power alongside a strong economic foundation. The urban dynamics, particularly centered around Almaty city, are reshaping the snacking culture to favor convenience, branded products, and innovative flavors. The consumption of packaged snacks, especially potato chips, is witnessing remarkable growth in Almaty and Nur-Sultan, driven by increased urbanization and a surge in modern retail infrastructures.

A significant development is the planned $160 million PepsiCo snack production plant, set to be completed in Almaty Region by 2026. This facility will enhance the region's production capabilities by initially producing 16,000 tons of salty snacks annually, with plans to expand to 21,000 tons by 2027. The investment is expected to create approximately 1,000 construction jobs and 350 operational roles. The establishment of this plant will not only bolster the manufacturing landscape in the region but also streamline supply chains and improve distribution efficiency across the nation.

Moreover, Almaty serves as a focal point for broader economic strategies aimed at advancing domestic food processing. Government initiatives, such as the “Economy of Simple Things,” are designed to support local snack producers through tax incentives and infrastructure enhancements, facilitating their entry into modern retail channels with more formalized operations.

Consumer behavior in Almaty further enhances its competitive edge, as residents are typically early adopters of healthier snack options, such as oven-baked chips and protein-rich snacks. This trend is indicative of a growing health consciousness and higher disposable income among the population. Additionally, Almaty functions as a testing ground for new flavors, premium packaging designs, and sustainability-focused branding, thanks to its diverse and trend-savvy consumer base.

In conclusion, the unique combination of economic vitality, urban consumer trends, production advancements, investment prospects, and government backing positions the Almaty Region as the most dynamic and lucrative market within Kazakhstan’s savory snacks sector. Its growth trajectory not only reflects national market expansion but also signals to brands and investors that prioritizing Almaty as a strategic hub for sustainable development in the industry is a wise move.

Some of the major companies operating within the Kazakhstan savory snacks market are: Snack Production Group, PepsiCo, Inc., Mondelez International Inc., Union Almaty Nan A, Unik OOO, Snack Production Group, Saratovskaya KF AO, Karabekov IP, Food Empire Holdings Ltd, Others.