The Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and Kazakhstan was signed back in December 2015, covering 29 areas, creating a basis for further deepening trade and economic cooperation, including in agriculture. And today, the Mission participants confirmed that cooperation in agriculture still occupies an important place on the agenda of Kazakhstan and the EU.

And we continue to introduce you to interesting participants of business meetings in Astana. Katsaros Nicholas is a famous winemaker and producer of spirits from Greece. His winery "Katsaros" is located in the picturesque region of Thessaly in the northeast of the country, where the unique climate and soil conditions contribute to the production of high-quality wines. "Katsaros" produces a wide range of wines: red, white and rosé. In an interview, Nicholas shared with our publication his plans to enter the Kazakhstan market and his experience in international cooperation.

QAZAQ CUITURE: Which Greek grape varieties, in your opinion, could be most in demand in the Kazakhstan market? And do you plan to introduce them in Kazakhstan?

Katsaros Nicholas: We are here to enter your market. We love Kazakhstan very much, and I like the people who live here. Today we cooperate with 39 countries, and Kazakhstan should become the 40th. I would like to find out which Greek grape varieties may be most in demand in the Kazakhstan market. But, in fact, we are here to find the best variety for "Tsipouro" and, of course, to study your market.

QAZAQ CUITURE: Do you have experience working with wine companies outside of Greece?

Katsaros Nicholas: My experience includes exporting wines and spirits to 39 countries around the world: from China to Australia, from the USA to Singapore. Now we are here because we want our wines to be represented in Kazakhstan as well. In addition, we have a very large area in the region where grapes grow.

QAZAQ CUITURE: How do you plan to promote Greek wines and beverages in the Kazakhstan market, taking into account cultural characteristics and consumer preferences?

Katsaros Nicholas: We hold many events in restaurants and markets where we offer wine to people familiar with the large market. But the main thing is that we must understand what is important for consumers here. We also have other drinks that can be drunk daily, both undiluted and in cocktails. My generation has been producing wines and spirits for over 170 years. My great-grandfather created this business and was the creator of one of the main wine products, including "Tsipouro". He made a lot of efforts to make these drinks available for consumption, unique, thanks to their high qualities and long traditions. I am considering exporting "Tsipouro" to Kazakhstan, as I think that it may appeal to local consumers.

Event dates: May 29/30, 2024

Venue: Astana, Interfood Astana, EU pavilion at Expo address: 53/1 Mangilik El Ave.