Abstract
The institutionalization of project management in the agro-industrial complex of Kazakhstan is becoming particularly relevant in the context of the transformation of the public administration system and the transition to a project-oriented model of sectoral development. Contemporary challenges associated with the need to improve resource utilization efficiency, enhance the effectiveness of government programs, ensure food security, and achieve the sustainable modernization of agriculture require the introduction of modern management tools and approaches. In this context, the organization of project activities is regarded as an important mechanism for increasing transparency, coordination, and manageability within the AIC, as well as for strengthening the accountability of stakeholders in achieving target indicators. The objective – is to identify the main constraints and determine the prospects of the project-based approach. Methods – systems analysis, comparative analysis, and the examination of national strategies for the modernization of agro-industrial production, analytical reports, and scientific publications were employed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the current state of the agrarian sector and to diagnose its key challenges. Results – the study revealed the existence of an institutional gap between the level of administration and the practical implementation of projects, manifested in weak partnership interaction among stakeholders, insufficient maturity of project management offices, a shortage of qualified personnel, and the limited application of digital technologies. In addition, problems related to the regulatory and legal framework, the inadequate adaptation of international experience, and the limited mechanisms for monitoring the effectiveness of implemented initiatives were identified. Conclusions emphasize the need to optimize project infrastructure, strengthen interagency coordination, promote the widespread adoption of digitalization, and develop professional competencies, which in the long term will enhance the performance of the country's agro-industrial complex. Particular importance is attached to planning processes, accounting for agricultural product prices, monitoring tax payments, and attracting investment into the sector.