The findings of this study illustrate how the process of post-Soviet economic transition
engenders among others significant spatial industrial restructuring. In addition to
well-known changes in the characteristics of individual enterprises these spatial aspects of
restructuring can be key determinants of a firm's performance. Moreover the effects of spatial
restructuring appear as influencing both industry-specific and location-specific
characteristics of firms. A number of previous studies have discussed overall economic
structural changes in Kazakhstan but only few highlight the regional-industrial perspective. A
focus on regional issues is particularly relevant in this case since Kazakhstani economic
development was uneven and industrial activities are concentrated in certain geographical
areas. The present study contributes to the existing literature through its perspective on
regional development at the industrial level. This is the first comprehensive analysis of
regional industrial development in Kazakhstan based on research into individual firms. The
study fills a gap by way analysing trends of industrial location in Kazakhstan in connection
with characteristics of particular enterprises - factors the consideration of which should play
a prominent role in the formulation of future regional and managerial policies.
