Kazakhstan Freezes Fuel Prices Through Spring 2026 – Will It Tame Inflation or Fuel Bigger Problems?
Kazakhstan froze gasoline, diesel, and utility prices nationwide from October 16, 2025, through at least spring 2026, after annual inflation hit 12.9% in September, a two-year high. The National Bank raised its key interest rate to a record 18% in October. Officials cite surging Russian fuel prices linked to the Ukraine war. The move follows deadly 2022 protests over fuel costs.