Astana, 4 November, . The transport ministry has approved a plan for phased increases in toll road fares in 2027–2029: up to 30% for cars and lorries of up to 10 tonnes, and up to 50% for lorries over 10 tonnes.
The document is not on the ministry’s websites; it was reported by BES.media.
Rates will be reviewed annually by vehicle class. The ministry explains the increase by the need for stable funding for road maintenance and operation. The ministry also insists that even after the increase fares will remain well below those in several neighbouring countries.
The Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs warns that higher fares will hit carriers, logistics and trade and may feed into the prices of goods. The chamber asks for gradual and predictable increases, discussion with business and transparency in how the money collected is spent.
What it means: In three years a toll road will cost a car driver almost a third more and a heavy lorry half as much again.
Who benefits: The toll road operator, which needs money for maintenance; drivers and carriers will pay, and through logistics so will shoppers; the report gives no specific amounts by year.
Background: In the Address of 28 October the President ordered responsibility for all the country’s roads to be transferred to the Government in the person of the transport ministry and demanded quality construction.
