ASTANA, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Kazakhstan's National Bank on Friday decided to keep its base interest rate unchanged at 18 percent, the Kazinform News Agency reported, citing a Monetary Policy Committee statement.
The central bank said it needs to ensure that inflation slows sustainably before considering rate cuts, especially in light of the resumption of tariff reforms, price adjustments, and expected increases in budget spending in the second half of the year.
Annual inflation in Kazakhstan slowed to 11.0 percent in March 2026, down from 11.7 percent in February, according to the bank.
It noted that inflationary risks are primarily linked to rising external pressures due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Kazinform reported that the next decision on the rate will be announced on June 5, with the current rate set in October 2025. ■