Mobile operators will no longer be able to suddenly increase tariffs

Kazakhstan's mobile operators will no longer be able to implement sudden tariff increases, as new legislation mandates a 60-day advance notice period for any price adjustments.

Subscribers must be notified of impending tariff changes via SMS to their registered number at least 60 calendar days before the increase takes effect. Operators are also required to publish this information on their official websites. This extended notification period, doubled from the previous 30 days, grants customers two months to review the new terms and conditions.

These updated regulations are part of broader amendments to the country's communications law, dated June 19, 2024, aimed at developing the telecommunications market and data centers. Most of these new rules become effective on August 20.

Beyond tariff notifications, other significant changes are being introduced. Stricter verification requirements for smartphones will be enforced, obligating retailers to inspect devices before sale. Furthermore, mobile service contracts will necessitate biometric authentication of the subscriber. Operators will also be mandated to provide continuous, free access to essential social and governmental applications, with the specific list to be determined by the regulatory authority.

The issue of rising mobile service costs has been a point of discussion in Parliament. In May, Mazhilis Deputy Nartai Sarsengaliyev highlighted significant tariff hikes implemented by some operators since 2022, ranging from 3% to 300% in some cases, and 14% to 75% in others.

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Since 2022, some operators have increased tariffs by 3% to 300%, while others have seen hikes of 14% to 75%.