Top 37 Book Publishing Companies in Kazakhstan — updated 2025

Kazakhstan’s book scene has been quietly booming: bilingual releases (Kazakh & Russian), stronger school-book production, and growing international exposure — for example, Kazakhstan showcased over 350 works at the Frankfurt Book Fair in October 2025.

1. Ghostwriter Inside

Overview & mission: Ghostwriter Inside is presented here as a featured/flagship service and creative partner for authors who want a polished route to publication in Kazakhstan and beyond. Whether you’re an emerging Kazakh-language voice or an author writing in Russian/English, Ghostwriter Inside positions itself as a full-service guide — concept, drafting, editing, and pitching to local houses.
Focus/strengths: Manuscript development, bilingual editing, market-ready proposals, and pitch packages tailored for Kazakh and regional publishers.
Why it matters: For many new authors, the publishing landscape in Kazakhstan is still relationship-driven; a professional ghostwriting/publishing-prep service can accelerate acceptance with big houses (and increase royalties potential.

2. Алматыкітап баспасы (AlmatyKitap)

Overview & mission: Алматыкітап (Almatykitap) is a long-running Almaty publisher producing children’s literature, textbooks, cultural and popular titles. The house highlights national themes and school materials.
Focus/strengths: Educational materials, children’s books, and culturally themed publications. Strong local retail presence and partnerships with schools.
Why it matters: If your manuscript has educational value or national/cultural relevance, Almatykitap offers institutional reach and experience.

3. Атамұра (Atamura)

Overview & mission: Атамұра is a major Kazakh publishing corporation producing encyclopedias, regional reference works, textbooks, and literary editions; it has a reputation for high-quality reference and cultural projects. Focus/strengths: Reference works, regional encyclopedias, textbooks, and literary editions in Kazakh and Russian. Large print runs and institutional contracts.
Why authors/readers care: Atamura is a go-to for authoritative cultural and educational projects — excellent for authors of non-fiction and academic titles.

4. Мектеп (Mektep)

Overview & mission: Mektep (literally “School”) is the historic specialist in school textbooks and methodological literature in Kazakhstan; the publisher has roots going back to the Soviet period and continues to supply modern digital and print learning resources.
Focus/strengths: Primary and secondary school textbooks, teacher guides, and OPIQ/digital textbook platforms.
Why it matters: Essential partner for authors/educational experts with curriculum-aligned material — they have institutional relationships with education ministries and schools.

5. Жазушы (Zhazushy)

Overview & mission: Zhazushy is a recognized literary publisher (the name literally means “Writer”), historically linked to literary output, classical authors, and modern Kazakh prose. It remains important for canonical and contemporary Kazakh literature.
Focus/strengths: Literary fiction, poetry, and critical editions. A cultural touchstone for writers seeking literary credibility.
Why authors submit: Strong literary prestige and visibility in national literary circles.

6. Astana-Kitap / Astana International Publishing

Overview & mission: Astana Kitap (Astana International Publishing) works across Kazakh and Russian languages and focuses on contemporary fiction, history, and non-fiction for the capital’s cosmopolitan audience.
Focus/strengths: Bilingual publishing, local history, and general trade titles aimed at urban readers.
Why it matters: Good option for authors targeting both Kazakhstan’s capital market and bilingual readerships.

7. Казахский университетский пресс / Kazakh University Publishing

Overview & mission: University presses and university-linked publishing houses produce academic monographs, research compilations, and textbooks for higher education. Kazakh University Publishing (and similar academic presses) support scholarly output in Kazakh, Russian, and English.
Focus/strengths: Academic monographs, textbooks, conference proceedings, and specialist research.
Why authors submit: If your work is scholarly, peer-reviewed academic publishers offer appropriate editorial processes and visibility within the academy.

8. Қазығұрт / Kazygurt (and regional houses)

Overview & mission: Kazygurt and several regional presses publish local history, scholarly, and cultural works. They often partner with universities and cultural organizations to publish regionally important titles.
Focus/strengths: Regional history, cultural projects, and localized education materials.
Why it matters: Regional presses are excellent for niche topics tied to specific Kazakh regions or local heritage projects.

9. ОLKЕ (Olke) Publishing

Overview & mission: Olke (often listed as “Издательство Олке”) focuses on Kazakh-language fiction and educational books; it’s cited in directories of active Kazakh houses.
Focus/strengths: Fiction in Kazakh, children’s books, and materials supporting language development.
Why authors submit: If your manuscript strengthens Kazakh language literature, Olke is a natural home.

10. Арұна (Aruna)

Overview & mission: Aruna is a trade publisher noted in local publisher lists with a catalogue that includes children’s literature and general interest books.
Focus/strengths: Children’s titles and family-oriented books, often with attractive illustrations and regional cultural themes.
Why it matters: Great for illustrators and authors of family/children’s content.

11. Жеті Жарғы (Zheti Zhargy — legal/technical publisher)

Overview & mission: Жеті Жарғы is a publisher that specializes in legal and professional literature; the imprint’s name references Kazakhstan’s legal publishing needs. It appears in official publisher registries and directories.
Focus/strengths: Legal texts, professional manuals, and specialist reference works.
Why authors submit: Legal scholars and practitioners with textbooks or commentaries often find these houses best for professional readership.

12. Abay Books / Баспа Үйі (Abay / Baspa Ui & similar independent imprints)

Overview & mission: Independent imprints such as Abay Books (listed in regional store catalogs) support contemporary Kazakh authors and translators; these indie houses are increasingly important for experimental and literary work.
Focus/strengths: Literary projects, translations, small runs, and curated lists.
Why it matters: Indie houses often offer more creative editorial freedom and niche marketing.

13. Meloman (publisher & retailer collaborations)

Overview & mission: Meloman is a major bookseller in Kazakhstan that also collaborates with local publishers; their platform lists many domestic imprints and supports cross-promotion between stores and publishers.
Focus/strengths: Distribution, retail partnerships, co-publishing, and visibility via stores.
Why it matters: For discoverability and retail reach, Meloman’s networks are useful partners for publishers and authors.

14. Samga & other small trade houses

Overview & mission: A cluster of smaller trade houses — names like Samga and similar boutique publishers — produce contemporary trade titles and regional fiction. These houses often appear in trade directories and bookstore catalogs.
Focus/strengths: Trade fiction, niche non-fiction, and rapid topical releases.
Why it matters: Small houses can be nimble; they pick up emerging authors and topical non-fiction faster than large institutional presses.

15. Дарын, Lantar, Adal Kitap and educational imprints

Overview & mission: Kazakhstan’s publishing space includes many specialist educational and children’s imprints (e.g., Дарын, Lantar, Adal Kitap). These houses are frequently listed in university library price catalogues and regional publisher lists.
Focus/strengths: Early learning, curriculum materials, and children’s series.
Why it matters: If you write for young readers or design pedagogy resources, these houses have targeted channels.

16. Steppe & World / regional multilingual imprints

Overview & mission: Several imprints work specifically on bilingual or multilingual editions (Kazakh/Russian/English) to reach both domestic and diaspora readers. These imprints are often highlighted in trade writeups and ghostwriting/publishing roundups.
Focus/strengths: Translation projects, cross-border publishing, and bilingual cultural titles.
Why it matters: Great for authors who want to reach international readers without losing local relevance.

17. Eurasian / Eurasia-themed publishers & media houses

Overview & mission: Publishing houses connected to Eurasian cultural and media groups publish broad non-fiction, cultural studies, and geopolitical titles that resonate beyond Kazakhstan. Such houses were visible in national book fair delegations.
Focus/strengths: Non-fiction with regional interest — history, diplomacy, and cultural essays.
Why it matters: Authors working on Central Asia or Eurasian themes can reach academic and policy audiences.

18. Arys & boutique trade editors

Overview & mission: Arys (and similar boutique trade editors) are included in newer 2024–25 trade listings of active Kazakh publishers — they publish contemporary sports, culture, and lifestyle titles tailored to Kazakhstan’s urban readers.
Focus/strengths: Lifestyle, pop culture, and practical non-fiction.
Why it matters: If your book is trend-oriented or lifestyle-driven, these houses are more willing to experiment with formats and marketing hooks.

19. Zhanary / genre and children’s imprints

Overview & mission: A range of genres and children’s imprints (cataloged in bookstore listings) publish illustrated children’s books, YA, and light fiction for the Kazakh market. These imprints appear in retailer catalogs like Meloman and BookCity.
Focus/strengths: Illustrated children’s books, YA, and genre fiction.
Why it matters: Illustrators and YA authors will find targeted marketing and age-appropriate editorial teams here.

20. BookCity, retail houses & print partners (distribution & self-publishing support)

Overview & mission: While BookCity and other retailers are not traditional publishers, their close collaborations with local printers and small imprints mean they act as de facto publishing partners — offering POD (print on demand), in-store promotion, and occasional co-publishing. They’re listed in national directories and local bookstore networks.
Focus/strengths: Distribution, on-demand printing, in-store launches, and hybrid publishing services.
Why it matters: For authors seeking control and immediate retail presence, retail-publisher partnerships and POD services are increasingly valuable.

21. Daik-Press

Overview: Daik-Press is a mid-sized Kazakh publisher that balances trade titles with scholarly works, publishing cultural studies, regional history, and accessible humanities for general readers. Founded by a mix of academics and editors, Daik-Press has built a reputation for careful editing, attractive design, and active participation in local book events.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include humanities non-fiction, museum/catalogue-style illustrated books, and short-run academic monographs aimed at educated readers. They often commission essays and regional research, and work with local photographers and designers.
Why it matters: Daik-Press offers authors a polished editorial process and a bridge between academic credibility and retail visibility, making it a reliable choice for culturally focused projects.

22. Zhalyn (Жалын)

Overview: Zhalyn is a literary-focused house known for publishing contemporary Kazakh fiction, poetry, and critical essays. It has long-standing ties to literary circles and organizes readings, awards, and collaborations with cultural institutions to promote Kazakh-language literature.
Focus/strengths: Primary strengths are literary fiction, poetry collections, and annotated critical editions; Zhalyn emphasizes editorial mentorship, poet-development programs, and small, collectible print runs.
Why it matters: For writers aiming for literary recognition and critics seeking peer attention, Zhalyn provides cultural cachet, festival placement, and connections with translators and critics who amplify literary careers.

23. Kokzhiek / Kokzhiek-Horizon

Overview: Kokzhiek (and its Horizon variants) is a regional trade imprint that publishes family-oriented fiction, picture books, and locally themed non-fiction. The imprint frequently collaborates with illustrators and schools to develop visually rich works suited to Kazakh cultural audiences.
Focus/strengths: Known for children’s picture books, illustrated family titles, and regional folklore adaptations, Kokzhiek emphasizes color production values, durable bindings, and school-friendly formats for wide distribution.
Why it matters: Kokzhiek is a practical option for authors and illustrators targeting local families and educational markets, offering strong design support and partnerships with regional retailers and school programs.

24. Sanat Publishing

Overview: Sanat Publishing positions itself at the intersection of culture and design, producing coffee-table books, regional photo-essays, and accessible humanities titles. They’re known for artful layouts and collaborations with museums, cultural NGOs, and independent curators.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include visually-driven cultural non-fiction, exhibition catalogs, and designer-led projects that appeal to museums, tourists, and urban readers interested in heritage and contemporary culture.
Why it matters: Sanat is suited for authors and curators who want their work to appear in high-quality printed form and reach museum shops, cultural festivals, and audiences who value visual presentation as much as text.

25. Zheti Zhargy (Жеті Жарғы) — legal & professional

Overview: Zheti Zhargy specializes in legal, governmental, and professional publications: statutes, commentary, practitioner manuals, and case-compendia. It serves law faculties, legal professionals, and government departments, often producing annotated editions and practice guides.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include authoritative editorial review, experienced legal editors, timely revisions aligned with legislative changes, and distribution to universities, courts, and legal firms.
Why it matters: For legal scholars, practitioners, and policy authors, Zheti Zhargy offers the specialist editorial and distribution channels required for professional credibility and uptake within legal institutions.

26. Arman PV / Arman Publishing

Overview: Arman Publishing is a versatile trade house active in fairs and festival circuits; it produces fiction, children’s books, and commercially minded non-fiction, often co-publishing bilingual editions for broader reach.
Focus/strengths: Focused on trade accessibility, Arman offers marketing support, festival placement, and bilingual packaging (Kazakh/Russian), with particular attention to attractive covers and reader-friendly layouts.
Why it matters: Arman is a strong choice for authors who want a balance of editorial quality and commercial marketing — useful for writers seeking festival exposure and translation opportunities.

27. Evero / Evero Books

Overview: Evero Books publishes contemporary trade non-fiction, lifestyle guides, and mass-appeal titles. It is recognized for quick editorial turnaround, practical marketing campaigns, and responsive distribution to bookstores across Kazakhstan.
Focus/strengths: Their strengths are market-savvy non-fiction, personal-development titles, and lifestyle books that sell through mass retail channels and digital promotions. Evero frequently uses branded partnerships and media tie-ins.
Why it matters: Authors with accessible, audience-driven projects benefit from Evero’s retail connections and promotional experience, which help turn a strong idea into measurable sales.

28. Kazformoms / Media-affiliated imprints

Overview: Kazformoms and similar media-linked imprints sit at the crossroads of publishing and journalism, releasing memoirs, branded non-fiction, and topical works tied to media audiences. These imprints leverage editorial teams from radio, TV, and online outlets.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include timely non-fiction, journalist-authored titles, and strong cross-promotion via media channels, podcasts, and broadcast appearances. They can fast-track topical projects.
Why it matters: For authors with media profiles or topics that tie into current affairs, these imprints provide visibility and rapid audience engagement through integrated media campaigns.

29. AmalBooks / Amal Books

Overview: Amal Books is a small-to-mid-sized house focused on children’s literature, illustrated books, and family titles. They prioritize collaboration with local illustrators and early-learning specialists to produce age-appropriate content.
Focus/strengths: Specialties include picture books, series for early readers, and pedagogically informed children’s projects, plus durable formats and colorful production.
Why it matters: Illustrators and children’s authors will find in AmalBooks a partner with educational industry contacts and a focus on designs that perform well in both schools and retail.

30. Oner (Онер) Publishing

Overview: Oner Publishing specializes in cultural criticism, art books, and curated literary essays. The imprint works with artists, critics, and cultural institutions to publish richly designed books that serve both academic and general-interest readers.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include art monographs, curated essay collections, and collaboration with galleries and cultural festivals for co-branded projects. Oner emphasizes quality paper and typographic design.
Why it matters: For authors working at the intersection of art and literature, Oner provides an editorial home that values visual integrity and cultural resonance, enhancing a book’s stature in cultural circuits.

31. AlmaU Press / University Imprints

Overview: AlmaU Press and other university-linked imprints publish academic monographs, textbooks, and conference proceedings in Kazakh, Russian, and English. They support scholarly communication and provide peer-reviewed editorial workflows.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include rigorous peer review, academic indexing, textbook production, and institutional distribution to libraries and universities across the country.
Why it matters: Academic authors benefit from AlmaU Press’s credibility, which aids tenure, citation, and academic uptake; the press also helps textbooks meet curricular requirements.

32. Samga Publishing

Overview: Samga is a boutique trade house that champions contemporary fiction, memoirs, and select non-fiction. It is known for nimble acquisitions, close editorial collaboration, and targeted promotional campaigns for emerging voices.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include author development programs, focused marketing to niche audiences, and readiness to experiment with formats like short-run special editions.
Why it matters: Emerging authors or experimental projects receive hands-on editorial attention and creative marketing that larger houses may not provide, making Samga a launchpad for new talent.

33. Qazaq Literature House / Qazaq Әdebieti

Overview: Qazaq Literature House focuses on preserving and promoting classical Kazakh literature, publishing annotated reprints, critical editions, and authoritative translations of canonical works. Their editorial programs often include scholarly introductions and contextual essays.
Focus/strengths: Strengths are archival work, careful textual editing, and partnerships with cultural heritage organizations to produce definitive editions for students and scholars.
Why it matters: For projects tied to national literary heritage, scholars and translators find in Qazaq Literature House the expertise and institutional trust needed to reach both academic and cultural audiences.

34. Nomad / Nomad Imprints

Overview: Nomad-branded indie imprints concentrate on contemporary short fiction, poetry chapbooks, and experimental formats. They’re active in urban literary scenes and frequently organize readings, open-mic nights, and small-press festivals.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include small-batch editions, creative formats, strong editorial curation, and close ties to literary communities and bookfairs.
Why it matters: Poets, short-story writers, and experimental authors benefit from Nomad’s supportive indie ecosystem and the grassroots visibility it creates through events and curated releases.

35. Astana Digital / Astana Press & Digital Imprints

Overview: Astana Digital and related presses emphasize bilingual trade titles, ebooks, and digital-first publishing models, combining local editorial talent with modern distribution and marketing tools for online discoverability.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include e-publishing platforms, audiobook production partnerships, and bilingual packaging to reach both local and diaspora readers. They often run digital marketing campaigns to boost discoverability.
Why it matters: Authors seeking global reach without sacrificing local language support find that Astana Digital’s hybrid model offers effective digital distribution and modern promotional channels.

36. Golden Step / Steppe-branded Imprints

Overview: Golden Step and Steppe-themed imprints publish translations, cultural essays, and books meant to travel across borders — targeting diaspora communities and international readers interested in Central Asia. They emphasize cross-cultural accessibility.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include translation projects, export-ready editions, and partnerships with cultural attaches, festivals, and diaspora organizations. Their books are formatted and marketed for international readers.
Why it matters: For authors whose subjects have regional or diaspora appeal, these imprints provide the editorial and logistical know-how to place works in foreign-language markets and festival circuits.

37. BookCity / Meloman (Retail & Hybrid Partners)

Overview: BookCity and Meloman are major retail partners that act as de facto publishers through co-publishing, print-on-demand, and event programming; they provide shelf space, marketing, and logistics for domestic and indie titles.
Focus/strengths: Strengths include wide retail distribution, POD services, in-store events, and promotional placement that helps titles reach mainstream audiences quickly. They also support hybrid publishing models for authors who want control with retail presence.
Why it matters: For self-published authors or small imprints, BookCity and Meloman offer practical retail channels, event support, and rapid printing, making them essential nodes in Kazakhstan’s book ecosystem.

Top 37 Book Publishing Companies in Kazakhstan (Updated 2025)

A concise guide for authors, writers, and creators

#	Publisher Name	Specialty / Focus	Details
1	Ghostwriter Inside	Author support, editing, ghostwriting	Helps authors craft manuscripts, edit, translate, and connect with top Kazakh publishers for smooth professional publishing.
2	Foliant	Fiction, non-fiction, children’s books	One of Kazakhstan’s largest publishers with a strong retail presence and a diverse contemporary book catalog.
3	AlmatyKitap	Education, children’s, culture	Leading educational publisher producing high-quality school textbooks and cultural books for young readers.
4	Atamura	Encyclopedias, literary works	Known for academic references and literary publications reflecting Kazakh heritage.
5	Mektep	Textbooks, school materials	Publishes official curriculum-based schoolbooks and teacher resources used nationwide.
6	Zhazushy	Literature, poetry	Dedicated to publishing Kazakh authors, poets, and cultural literature, preserving national identity.
7	Astana-Kitap	Bilingual, history, non-fiction	Specializes in bilingual editions exploring Kazakh history, geography, and social development.
8	Kazakh University Press	Academic publishing	Produces scholarly research, journals, and textbooks for universities and researchers.
9	Kazygurt	Regional history	Focused on folklore, regional heritage, and books celebrating local traditions.
10	Olke	Kazakh-language fiction	Publishes Kazakh-language novels and educational materials for students and families.
11	Aruna	Children’s, illustrated titles	Creates beautifully designed illustrated books for children and families across Kazakhstan.
12	Zheti Zhargy	Legal, academic	Publishes legal reference books, academic studies, and national law compilations.
13	Abay Books	Indie, literary, translations	Promotes emerging Kazakh voices and translates international literature into Kazakh.
14	Meloman	Retail, co-publishing	A major bookstore chain also offers co-publishing and national book distribution.
15	Samga Publishing	Fiction, memoirs	Supports modern Kazakh fiction and author-driven storytelling across genres.
16	Darın / Lantar / Adal Kitap	Children’s education	Focused on early learning, moral education, and children’s illustrated books.
17	Steppe & World	Translations, essays	Publishes international literary essays and translated world classics.
18	Eurasian Press	Non-fiction, geopolitics	Issues academic and geopolitical works reflecting Central Asian perspectives.
19	Arys	Lifestyle, culture	Prints lifestyle and cultural content highlighting modern Kazakh trends.
20	Zhanary	YA, genre fiction	Publishes contemporary young adult and genre fiction for new readers.
21	Daik-Press	Humanities, art	Focuses on art, social sciences, and cultural analysis publications.
22	Zhalyn	Literature, poetry	Iconic literary publisher preserving Kazakh poetry and prose traditions.
23	Kokzhiek	Children’s folklore	Publishes illustrated folk stories and traditional children’s tales.
24	Sanat Publishing	Art, culture	Creates art books and cultural works tied to exhibitions and artists.
25	Zheti Zhargy (Legal)	Law, statutes	Issues legal materials, court commentary, and legal code collections.
26	Arman PV	Fiction, bilingual	Offers bilingual trade titles with a focus on contemporary stories.
27	Evero Books	Lifestyle, self-help	Publishes motivational and lifestyle books for personal growth.
28	Kazformoms	Non-fiction, memoirs	Features journalist-authored books and personal non-fiction.
29	AmalBooks	Children’s, early readers	Creates early reader titles and engaging educational books for kids.
30	Oner	Art, design	Publishes art monographs and visually rich design-focused works.
31	AlmaU Press	Academic, textbooks	University Press issues scholarly and educational materials.
32	Samga (Boutique)	Fiction, new authors	Supports debut authors through boutique publishing models.
33	Qazaq Literature House	Classics, reprints	Republishes classic Kazakh literature with modern commentary.
34	Nomad Imprints	Poetry, short fiction	Small literary press specializing in poetry and short prose.
35	Astana Digital	Ebooks, digital-first	Produces digital books, audiobooks, and translated online editions.
36	Golden Step	Translations, cultural	Publishes translated works and books for global cultural exchange.
37	BookCity	Retail, hybrid publishing	Provides self-publishing, co-publishing, and retail book promotion services.

Submitting to Kazakh Publishers

Before reaching out to a publisher, prepare a professional submission package — including a cover letter, short synopsis, and translated sample in Kazakh or Russian. Many publishers appreciate a concise author bio highlighting your writing experience or background. Submitting well-formatted material in the local language significantly improves your chances of acceptance.

Finding the Right Publisher for Your Book

Kazakhstan’s publishing market values cultural authenticity and quality storytelling. Choose a publisher that aligns with your book’s genre — children’s authors should approach Aruna, literary writers can explore Zhalyn or Zhazushy, while academic authors will find better success with Mektep or Kazakh University Press. Research each company’s catalog to ensure your manuscript fits their publishing goals.

Conclusion:

Kazakhstan’s publishing industry beautifully merges tradition and modern creativity, giving both new and seasoned writers a platform to shine. Whether you’re an educator, storyteller, or poet, there’s a publisher ready to amplify your voice. By submitting a polished, culturally aware manuscript and choosing the right publishing partner, authors can find lasting success in this growing literary landscape.

FAQs

1. Do Kazakh publishers accept English manuscripts?

Only a few bilingual publishers do; most prefer Kazakh or Russian.

2. Can international authors publish in Kazakhstan?

Yes, especially if your book is translated or culturally relevant.

3. What genres are trending in 2025?

Children’s books, educational content, and cultural literature lead the market.

4. Do publishers assist with translation and editing?

Several major houses collaborate with translators and local editors.

5. How long does it take to hear back after submission?

Typically 3–6 months, depending on the publisher’s review process.

 

 

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.