New $250-million Kia car plant construction starts in KostanayKazakhstan's government announced the beginning of the construction of an integrated automobile manufacturing facility in Kostanay, northern Kazakhstan, for manufacturing Kia cars."The new plant, representing around $250 million in foreign investment, aims to create 1,500 high-paying jobs and will have the capacity to produce 70,000 cars annually," the government of Kazakhstan said.The construction is expected to be completed by 2024, followed by the installation of equipment. The pilot launch of the plant is slated for the first quarter of 2025, with full production commencing in the second quarter.First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar, speaking at the construction launch, noted, "The establishment of a full-cycle Kia car production plant in Kostanay represents a groundbreaking achievement in high-tech mechanical engineering. This project is expected to yield a substantial multiplier effect, elevate the training standards for the upcoming generation of engineers and technicians, and advance localization in the industry."Kia is establishing a center in Kostanay, Kazakhstan, to produce automobile parts, collaborating with local small and medium businesses. During a visit in January 2023, Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev initiated a new Kia Sportage production line at the Allur automobile plant, underscoring the importance of expanding industrial ties and developing the engineering sector.Additionally, in August, the Kazakh government formed a partnership with South Korea, launching "Kia Qazaqstan." This joint venture will oversee the construction of a new Kia manufacturing facility in Kostanay. This initiative represents the beginning of Kazakhstan's first automotive localization center and a step forward in training specialized technical personnel. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX