Abstract
The article examines creative industries as an important driver of the transformation of the modern economy and the development of a knowledge-based society. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current state of creative industries in Kazakhstan, identify institutional and economic barriers to their development, and determine strategic directions for forming a national model of the creative economy. The methodological framework is based on an interdisciplinary approach combining statistical, institutional, and comparative analyses together with case study methods. The empirical basis of the research consists of statistical data from the Bureau of National Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2019–2025, analytical reports of international organizations, and regulatory documents. The results show that creative industries in Kazakhstan are still in the early stages of institutional development and are characterized by fragmented infrastructure, an insufficient level of professional management capacity, and limited integration into international markets. At the same time, there is a noticeable growth in digital cultural production and an increasing public recognition of creative professions. The study concludes that further development of the creative industries requires institutionalization of the sector, the formation of professional infrastructure, reform of educational programs, and expansion of international cooperation. Implementing these measures will enhance the economic performance of the creative sector and strengthen Kazakhstan’s cultural competitiveness.