Tokayev demands faster gas field development to cut importsPresident Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Tuesday ordered state energy firm QazaqGaz to accelerate development of new gas fields after imports rose sharply last year, stressing domestic production is failing to keep pace with economic demand."Blue fuel production is lagging behind our economy’s growing demands," Tokayev told the 5th National Kurultai in Kyzylorda. "To ensure grid stability, we must urgently deploy balancing capacities, starting with gas generation. Natural gas potential can and must be enhanced through new exploration."He noted that commercial gas imports jumped 18% in 2025, reaching 4.5 billion cubic meters, while the commissioning of new domestic fields has proceeded "unacceptably slow." Tokayev called the situation "completely unacceptable" and a result of poor planning.The president directed QazaqGaz "to begin developing promising gas sites using its own funds and by attracting investors." He also ordered the government and the Samruk-Kazyna sovereign wealth fund to intensify exploration and ensure new hydrocarbon fields are brought online.Tokayev emphasized that major gas processing projects must be launched on schedule, stating, "We need concrete results, not declarations of intent." (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX