The economic nature of productivity gaps in the Republic of Kazakhstan and scenarios for overcoming them

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study of labor productivity gaps in various industries, regions and enterprises for the Republic of Kazakhstan. The purpose of the work was to analyze the economic nature of these gaps and develop scenarios to overcome them. The research is based on a systematic approach within the framework of the modernization concept. Methods of comparative, structural, and statistical analysis of data by region and industry for 2023-2025, as well as expert assessments, were used. Significant disparities in labor productivity have been identified between Kazakhstan and the EU countries (a 3.22-fold lag), as well as within the country between regions (the maximum gap reaches 7.8 times) and economic sectors (the mining industry surpasses agriculture by 20 times). It has been established that the key reasons are the technological complexity of the economy, commodity dependence, regional uneven development and a shortage of qualified personnel. Based on the analysis, seven interrelated scenarios for bridging gaps are proposed, including technological modernization, economic diversification, human capital development, and improvement of the institutional environment. The research results can be used by government agencies to formulate industrial and regional policy programs.