Export potential, Kazakhstan, WTO provisions, Integration effects, WTO, Driving forces.

In this paper, we study the impact of integration effects on the export potential of the Republic of Kazakhstan by assessing the pros and cons of membership, in order to form a reasoned conclusion. Membership of the WTO required a large reduction of import tariffs, as well as the elimination of numerous non-tariff barriers. Empirical findings on the impact of the tariff reduction and the effect on the export potential of Kazakhstan will be discussed at the industry level.

The research focuses on two aspects. Firstly, we analyze the export situation within the WTO system and forecast possible changes. Using information collected on import tariffs and non-tariff barriers, we explore the relative importance of alternative mechanisms through which policy changes may have been affected. Secondly, we explore the possible measures for making managerial solutions.