The global economy is undergoing a new technological revolution driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. The study “Technological Disruption in the US Labor Market” by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) examines labor market transformations in the United States, identifying key trends that can be applied to other countries, including Kazakhstan.
This article explores how technological shifts are reshaping Kazakhstan’s labor market, which professions are at risk, what new opportunities are emerging, and how the country can adapt to these changes.
How is the Technological Revolution Changing the Labor Market?
According to the NBER (2025) study, technological changes have been accelerating over the past decades. From 1990 to 2017 the US labor market remained relatively stable, but with AI and robotics advancing rapidly, the pace of transformation has increased. Key trends include:
• Growth of AI and machine learning – algorithms are replacing human labor in various industries, from finance to media.
• Declining demand for routine jobs – automation is reducing employment in manufacturing, retail, and financial services.
• Restructuring of employment – low-skilled jobs are disappearing, while high-tech positions are growing.
• Flexible employment models – remote work, freelancing, and project-based work are becoming more common.
How Will AI Affect Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan is already experiencing the effects of digitization and automation. Key challenges include:
• Automation in manufacturing – miners, factory workers, and employees in the processing industry may see reduced demand for their skills.
• Digitalization of retail – the rise of e-commerce is reducing the need for traditional retail jobs.
• Declining demand for office workers – AI is capable of performing tasks in accounting, law, and administration.
However, automation also brings new opportunities:
• Growth of the IT sector – demand for AI developers, programmers, and cybersecurity experts is rising.
• Expansion of the startup ecosystem – following the examples of the US and Singapore, Kazakhstan can foster AI-driven startups.
• Emphasis on STEM education – strengthening education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics will increase the country’s competitiveness.
Global Experience: US, Germany, China
United States: NBER research shows that AI and robotics reduce low-wage jobs while creating new opportunities in data analysis, IT, and engineering.
Germany: The German model highlights the importance of dual education systems, where students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills at real workplaces, ensuring smooth adaptation to a changing job market.
China: The Chinese government actively supports automation while also implementing large-scale retraining programs for workers affected by job displacement.
How Can Kazakhstan Adapt those mentioned above?
1. Education Reform – Expand STEM programs and adopt Germany’s dual education system.
2. Flexible Labor Market – Develop retraining programs and provide incentives for companies to create high-tech jobs.
3. Government Initiatives – Establish AI hubs, support digital startups, and offer tax benefits for automated businesses.
5. Investment in R&D – Fund research and development for AI-driven solutions.
6. Monitoring the Impact of Automation – Continuously track labor market trends and adjust policies accordingly.
Kazakhstan and AI: Which Professions Will Be in Demand?
The NBER (2025) study indicates that the number of STEM specialists in the US has grown by 50%. Kazakhstan should focus on:
• Data Science, Big Data
• Cybersecurity
• Robotics and Automation
• Bioengineering
• Logistics and last-mile delivery services
Kazakhstan is entering a new era of technological transformation. To minimize risks and seize new opportunities, the government and businesses must act now. Reskilling workers, strengthening STEM education, and integrating AI tools will not only preserve jobs but also create new ones, ensuring long-term economic growth.
Prepared by: Alen Serik, expert of the EconomyKZ.org portal
