Almaty named World Craft City for preserving traditional artistry
The World Crafts Council has officially named Almaty a World Craft City, honoring its efforts to preserve cultural heritage
ALMATY, Kazakhstan (MNTV) – The World Crafts Council has officially named Almaty a World Craft City, honoring its efforts to preserve cultural heritage and promote traditional craftsmanship, Kazinform News Agency reported.
The announcement was made on October 5 during ALA CRAFT 2025, an international festival held in front of the Palace of the Republic, where more than 100 artisans from Kazakhstan, Asia, Europe, Australia, and the United States showcased their work.
Galiya Tokseitova, head of Almaty’s Tourism Department, said the new designation will strengthen the city’s creative economy and position local crafts as a key driver of economic growth.
Jude van der Merwe, President of the World Crafts Council Asia-Pacific Region, noted that Almaty’s recognition highlights its growing role in international cultural exchange and its contribution to the global crafts movement.
Tourism data reflects the city’s rising profile: in the first half of 2025, Almaty welcomed 1.14 million visitors, including 323,000 foreign tourists.
The ALA CRAFT festival also featured unique performances and record-breaking displays. Kazakh strongman Sergey Tsyryulnikov, a four-time world record holder, set a new Global Book of Records achievement by bending nine horseshoes in one minute, breaking the previous record of three.
Earlier this year, the Almaty City Administration allocated 12.2 billion tenge (about $26 million) to build the Children’s Science Museum, set to be the first of its kind in the CIS region — further reflecting the city’s investment in innovation and culture.
With its new global title, Almaty joins a select group of cities worldwide recognized for their commitment to craft heritage and creativity, reinforcing its place as Central Asia’s cultural capital.
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