Abstract
The article is devoted to the study of managerial and marketing strategies aimed at improving the efficiency of Kazakhstan’s grain exports to China. The analysis of the current state revealed supply dynamics, key routes, and system weaknesses, including logistical and institutional barriers such as infrastructure limitations, phytosanitary inconsistencies, low digitalization, and restricted access to facilities. The study of the experience of Russia, Canada, and Australia demonstrated the importance of subsidies, digital monitoring, and sectoral branding. Marketing communications, electronic platforms, and the “Kazakh Grain” brand were also examined. A model of synergy between logistics and marketing with an implementation roadmap was presented to optimize supply chains and strengthen market positions. The purpose of the study is to systematize and evaluate managerial practices for overcoming logistical constraints in grain trade between Kazakhstan and China, as well as to identify directions for improving state and corporate policies. The research methodology is based on a systematic approach that combines theoretical and empirical methods. The study applied analysis of scientific publications, regulatory acts, strategic documents, and the experience of leading grain-exporting countries, as well as content analysis of statistics and industry reports. The empirical base included analysis of export statistics, expert interviews, and a SWOT analysis to identify key factors and barriers to the development of grain exports to China. The originality/value of the study lies in the comprehensive consideration of logistical problems and managerial solutions in the grain export system, which made it possible to integrate institutional and corporate levels of analysis, taking into account the specifics of Kazakhstan–China trade. This approach not only reveals barriers but also formulates practical recommendations for overcoming them, thereby enhancing the applied significance of the results for state policy and corporate strategies. Research results . The findings showed that the integration of logistical and marketing strategies is the key to strengthening the position of Kazakhstan’s grain in China. The developed model with a roadmap allows reducing costs, accelerating deliveries, and improving the activities of “Kazakh Grain,” while also increasing competitiveness through infrastructure modernization, digitalization of procedures, and active use of trade platforms.