The global AI race is shifting from algorithms to infrastructure. Success increasingly depends on computing capacity, data centers, reliable electricity, digital networks, and stable regulation rather than software alone.

Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a Eurasian computing hub. Through its Data Center Valley initiative (targeting 1 GW capacity), AI Law, Alatau technology district, and efforts to attract hyperscale operators, it aims to export computing power and AI services.

The strategy leverages existing national strengths. Abundant energy, central geography, and recent institutional reforms are being repurposed to attract data-center investment, though long-term success will hinge on converting that infrastructure into domestic innovation and value creation.

In recent years, nearly every country has been racing to formulate its artificial intelligence (AI) strategy. The United States continues to reinforce its dominance through its technology giants, China is rapidly integrating AI across a wide range of industries, while many other countries are nurturing startups, expanding research centers and investing in digital talent. The competition appears to revolve around a single question, who can build the world’s most advanced AI technologies?

That perception, however, is beginning to change. The progress of AI is determined not only by the sophistication of algorithms or the availability of skilled engineers. Behind every advanced AI model lies a far more fundamental set of prerequisites, computing capacity, large-scale data centers, reliable electricity, robust digital infrastructure and a predictable regulatory environment. Without these foundations, AI cannot scale into a viable industry. Increasingly, the global AI race is becoming a competition to build infrastructure rather than merely develop software.

Kazakhstan appears to be among the countries that recognized this shift early. That strategic thinking was reflected in President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s address at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. At first glance, his remarks resembled those of many governments seeking to capitalize on the AI boom. Yet when viewed alongside Kazakhstan’s policy initiatives over the past several years, a distinct strategic pattern begins to emerge.

Despite the considerable challenges that remain,........

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