Kazakhstan Seeks Balance Between AI Innovation and Regulation
ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Association for the Development of Artificial Intelligence, known as Qaz.AI, is collaborating with government and industry leaders to establish new regulations for AI. The aim is to encourage innovation while safeguarding against manipulation and other risks, according to Temirlan Ziyatov, the association’s chairman.
Connecting Startups and Government
The association was founded in response to specific challenges faced by the private sector rather than as a formal institution. A significant case was that of Cerebra AI, a medical startup that entered the U.S. market and sought certification from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), known for its stringent regulatory standards.
Ziyatov noted that foreign investors questioned why such solutions were not utilized in Kazakhstan or procured by the Ministry of Health. An analysis revealed that startups encounter numerous barriers, including outdated regulations that fail to account for AI’s unique characteristics. This led to the creation of an organization to bridge the gap between government and business.
The association aims to clarify how regulations function, outline necessary stages for companies, and promote a structured approach to implementing AI solutions.
Promoting Responsible AI Use
According to Ziyatov, the mission is to clarify the rules of the game and promote responsible AI usage. Many startups have a narrow focus, believing their product is flawless, yet they often overlook regulatory constraints. Ziyatov, who has launched startups himself, understands this mindset, but emphasizes that reality brings forth processes, requirements, and regulations.
The association supports businesses in understanding regulatory requirements while also educating government agencies about the technological specifics of AI.
Balanced AI Governance
Kazakhstan has prioritized establishing a regulatory framework for digital technologies, being one of the first to introduce jurisdiction over AI law and develop a Digital Code. The association played a role in drafting both documents.
The primary goal is to achieve a balance between regulation and market development. Ziyatov stated, “We are not reinventing the wheel. We are adapting best practices from the United States, Europe, and developing countries to our reality.” He warned that overly strict regulations could stifle the market, while a lack of regulation could lead to distortions and abuses.
Clear rules are essential, including defined responsibilities, limits on technology use, and strong protections for human rights. The Digital Code emphasizes personal data protection and individuals’ rights to control their data. It includes provisions for citizens to request the deletion of their personal information and enhances copyright protections along with requirements for labeling AI-generated content.
Ethical Considerations and Workforce Challenges
Early legislative actions and the development of data centers and supercomputing infrastructure position Kazakhstan as a potential technology hub in Central Asia. However, Ziyatov cautions that the rapid growth of AI presents significant risks, particularly concerning the potential for manipulation of public opinion.
He states, “Everything depends on the logic embedded in the system. AI can amplify distortions, shape narratives, and replace reality.” Thus, content labeling, digital literacy, and personal responsibility are crucial.
A significant challenge is the shortage of skilled personnel. Kazakhstan lacks both AI developers and qualified educators. Efforts are underway to train 500 digital officers, while the association is developing programs for senior officials to translate leadership vision into balanced AI strategies.
Ziyatov emphasizes that processes must be structured before introducing automation and digitalization: “You cannot automate chaos and expect good results.” The association collaborates with market participants and universities to create specialized training programs focused on practical skills and a systematic approach to digital transformation.
In conclusion, Ziyatov asserts that AI should address real-world problems rather than serve as a mere technological showcase. With government support and opportunities to become a regional leader, he believes that AI must evolve to yield genuine social benefits.
