Abstract

Capacity building in modern agricultural statistics: lessons from the 2025 Kazakhstan agricultural census
Organization:Bureau of National statistics Agency for Strategic planning and reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Participant/author: Sarsenbayev N.O. (co-authors: Jartybaeva A.K., Makhsatuly B., Bizhanova E.B.)
Country: Republic of Kazakhstan

Introduction
Modernizing agricultural statistics requires a systemic approach to improving data quality, reliability, and timeliness. This involves not only digital technologies and new data sources-administrative registers, satellite imagery, GIS-but also an effective institutional and legal framework. Digitalization enables automation in collection, processing, and analysis, reducing human error and strengthening credibility of indicators.
The national agricultural census in Kazakhstan became both a key source of data and a reform platform for introducing innovative solutions: from online enumeration and integration with state systems to real-time monitoring and quality control.
Legislative and institutional framework
Recent amendments to the Law on State Statistics expanded the use of administrative and alternative data sources. A new role of data controllers was introduced to verify administrative records. Work is ongoing to expand the agricultural register and integrate it with cadastral, tax, and other databases.
In the future, geospatial and satellite monitoring will enhance land-use and crop-yield assessment, forming a more accurate and reliable system for analysis and forecasting.
The 2025 Agricultural Census
The 2025 census was a major step in digital transformation of agricultural statistics. For the first time, respondents could choose between two modes:
• Online self-enumeration via a dedicated internet platform. This reduced collection time, eased workloads for census takers, optimized logistics, and minimized errors. Flexibility in participation increased public involvement.
• Field survey with tablets, equipped with software for direct data entry and instant validation. This ensured speed, accuracy, and correction of mistakes on-site.
A distinctive feature was the Data Inspection module, providing real-time quality checks. It automatically flagged anomalies and incomplete responses, strengthening reliability of results.
A central contact center supported respondents through phone and online channels, resolving technical and organizational issues, which improved trust and communication.
Together, these solutions made data collection more efficient, transparent, and convenient. The census became not only a statistical exercise but also a milestone in Kazakhstan’s agricultural digitalization.
Human resources and outreach
Training of personnel was a priority. Over 3,000 interviewers and instructors completed courses supported by e-learning modules, videos, and practical guides. Local executive bodies and industry associations helped broaden respondent coverage.
Information campaigns included media, outdoor advertising, SMS, and messenger alerts. Self-service areas were established for independent participation.
Interagency cooperation
Close collaboration with ministries expanded the use of administrative data. Some questionnaire fields were pre-filled, with respondents able to make corrections. This hybrid approach brought the system closer to a combined register model.
As of September 10, organized agricultural enterprises achieved about 85% coverage, while households exceeded 20%.
New digital solutions
An AI-based virtual assistant supported respondents and field staff. It answered FAQs, guided questionnaire completion, and reduced errors. This tool also eased the workload of the contact center.
International cooperation
Kazakhstan collaborated with the UN FAO, USDA-NASS, and other partners to align with international standards and integrate best practices in digitalization and quality assurance.
Lessons learned and way forward
The census confirmed the effectiveness of:
• digital platforms for collection and monitoring;
• real-time quality control systems;
• integration of administrative and alternative sources;
• interagency cooperation and international partnerships.
These elements create the foundation for transitioning toward a register-based agricultural statistics system. Legislative reforms, expansion of the agricultural register, and adoption of digital infrastructure together will ensure sustainable, reliable, and forward-looking agricultural data.
Conclusion
Kazakhstan’s 2025 Agricultural Census demonstrated that innovation in methods, technologies, and organization can substantially improve data quality, transparency, and timeliness. The experience has laid a solid basis for future agricultural statistics, strengthening their role in ensuring food security and sustainable development.