Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is taking a new step to penetrate the Central Asian market by bringing local franchises to Kazakhstan as a strategic gateway to Eurasia, a move expected to boost export value, attract foreign investment and create more high-value jobs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) said in a statement today that the initiative was implemented through a Special Business Mission to Almaty, Kazakhstan. This mission was organised in collaboration with Perbadanan Nasional Bhd (PERNAS), SME Corporation Malaysia, and the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA).
The mission brought together some of the country’s leading franchise brands, with more than 50 successful business-matching sessions held with 30 potential local companies in Kazakhstan. The programme also included business dialogue sessions, experience-sharing with local franchise industry players, and market surveys to explore opportunities and best practices in the region.
According to the statement, the mission under the Enhanced Franchise Development Programme aligns with the aspirations of the National Franchise Policy 2030 (DFN2030) and the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which emphasises enhancing the competitiveness of Malaysian franchises internationally.
The Central Asian market, particularly Kazakhstan, was chosen as a new destination due to its strategic location as a gateway to Eurasia, supported by investment-friendly policies including tax incentives, customs exemptions, and legal protection for investors. “The growth of the services sector, rising purchasing power of urban communities, and government support for the franchise model also make this country an attractive market, particularly in the food and beverage, education, and creative industries,” said KUSKOP.
The ministry also noted that the close relationship between Malaysia and Kazakhstan, as well as shared Islamic cultural values, provides strong opportunities for the acceptance of halal products, education, and Muslim-friendly lifestyles.
Meanwhile, PERNAS, in the same statement, reiterated its commitment to strengthening its role as the main facilitator in supporting the sustainable expansion of Malaysian franchises, thereby bolstering the country’s position as a regional franchise hub.
The MFA added that the mission reflects the government’s commitment to producing more world-class franchise players, in line with the aspirations of DFN2030 and the 13MP to position Malaysia as the ASEAN Franchise Hub by 2030.
“This special trade mission is expected to strengthen bilateral trade networks and open up wider opportunities for Malaysian franchises to penetrate the Central Asian and global markets,” KUSKOP said.