Economist Aidarkhan Kusainov, a well-known figure in Kazakhstan, deems it necessary to raise taxes in the country. However, he makes one crucial caveat: it must be a progressive scale, with the wealthy contributing more. But here’s the catch: the affluent may not allow this to happen.

On his Telegram channel, the expert writes:

«I understand that this isn’t pleasant. However, as early as 2016, in my book on the new economic policies, I wrote about our low taxes and the need to introduce a progressive scale, increasing taxation for both individuals and businesses. This is the right stance from a macroeconomic perspective, not just a result of momentary impulses. I, as an individual, won’t be thrilled about the introduction of a progressive scale either. But, from the standpoint of the country’s economic policies and the benefit of society, we should approach this with understanding and set aside our selfish interests.»

«I’ll state another unpopular opinion: entitlement attitudes are more prevalent among the business community and the affluent population in Kazakhstan, who vehemently resist tax increases while vociferously asserting that the state owes them…

When the state raises subsidies, social benefits, and so forth, the business sector is the loudest to protest, claiming that it fosters entitlement attitudes in society. But as soon as the government attempts to reduce business subsidies, business owners immediately start complaining that the state is stifling them.»

(Note: The translation provided is a direct representation of the original text’s content. Please note that some nuances of the original text may be specific to the cultural or political context of Kazakhstan.)