Astana, Kazakhstan – In a recent meeting between Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and PepsiCo’s regional President David Manzini, discussions focused on advancing agreements signed between Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta. Central to these discussions was the construction of a new snacks plant in the Almaty region, particularly for the production of Lay’s potato chips.
Investment and Technological Advancement
PepsiCo is injecting USD 160 million in private foreign investments into the construction of the plant, aiming to position it as the largest in Central Asia. Scheduled for commissioning in 2026, the plant will have an initial capacity of 16,000 tons of end products annually, increasing to 21,000 tons by 2027. This investment is set to elevate Kazakhstan’s capability for deep processing of domestic farm products.
Economic and Employment Impact
The project will not only boost the local economy but also create significant employment opportunities. Up to 1,000 workers will be engaged in the plant’s construction, and the operational phase will generate over 350 jobs. The plant is included in Kazakhstan’s pool of priority investment projects, which, as of the first quarter of 2024, consists of 704 projects worth 32 trillion tenge and is expected to create 122,500 jobs.
Local Sourcing and Sustainability
Manzini emphasized PepsiCo’s commitment to sourcing local raw materials. Agreements with Kazakhstani farmers are underway to supply test batches of potatoes, with plans to procure 50,000-66,000 tons between 2026 and 2030. Furthermore, PepsiCo is committed to sustainability, ensuring that 100% of the plant’s waste products will be processed and utilized.
Strategic Importance and Future Prospects
PepsiCo, based in Purchase, New York, stands as one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies and a key investment partner for Kazakhstan. Over the past two years, PepsiCo has invested over 53 billion US dollars in the country. This new plant not only strengthens PepsiCo’s investment footprint but also aligns with Kazakhstan’s goal of leveraging foreign investment to drive economic growth and technological advancement.
PepsiCo’s investment in the Almaty region signifies a strategic enhancement of Kazakhstan’s agricultural and economic infrastructure. By localizing production, introducing innovative technologies, and committing to sustainability, PepsiCo is set to transform the local agricultural landscape and create substantial economic benefits for the region.
