In the EAEU countries, nominal incomes generally grew in the first quarter of 2026, but the purchasing power of the population shows mixed dynamics. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
According to data published on the website of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), in the period from January 1 to March 31, 2026, the average monthly nominal wage increased in all member states compared to the same period in 2025. However, real wages (adjusted for the consumer price index for goods and services) grew only in three countries.
The highest growth rates of real incomes were recorded in Russia (108.7%) and Belarus (107%). In Kyrgyzstan, this figure was 105.2%. A decline in real incomes was recorded in two states: in Armenia the figure was 98.8%, and in Kazakhstan — 97.7%.
In dollar terms (at average national bank exchange rates), the ranking of average wages in the EAEU is as follows:
- 01Russia: $1,200
- 02Belarus: $800
- 03Kazakhstan: $750
- 04Armenia: $600
- 05Kyrgyzstan: $400
According to the EEC, the average monthly nominal wage in the Republic of Kazakhstan in Q1 2026 reached 461,486 tenge (nominal growth of 109.1%). At the same time, the actual purchasing power of the population decreased.
This macroeconomic trend correlates with internal data from the Bureau of National Statistics. Earlier, analysts drew attention to the paradox of the current year: despite the formal growth of average wages (which in certain periods exceeded 473 thousand tenge), real incomes continue to decline due to inflationary pressure. Statistics also record a significant disparity in incomes depending on the region and sector of the economy.
To level the socio-economic situation, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan is currently developing a package of proposals to increase the basic minimum wage in the country.