Value-added tax rate could be raised from 12% to 16% in a a package of amendments to the draft Tax Code submitted by Kazakhstan's Ministry of National Economy to the lower house of parliament to improve tax administration

A new nationwide coordination body has been set up to unite state agencies in the fight against drug addiction and drug-related crimes; it will focus on developing comprehensive prevention measures, improving treatment and rehabilitation programs

Negotiations are underway with potential suppliers, including China National Nuclear Corporation, for the construction of third nuclear power plant; Kazakh Atomic Energy Agency reports talks of development of high-power nuclear and small modular reactors

Foreign nationals from neighboring and distant countries have increasingly chosen Kazakhstan as a destination for medical care; key areas of medical tourism include high-tech treatments in neurosurgery, reproductive services, dental care and cosmetology