Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is not only a political and economic center but also a cultural city that has seen remarkable literary growth. In the past decade, publishing in Kazakhstan has evolved from traditional state-supported presses into a vibrant mix of modern, hybrid, and digital-first companies. By 2025, Astana has become home to both established publishing houses and innovative startups that cater to authors across genres and languages.
The publishing landscape reflects the city’s unique position as a bridge between East and West. While some companies focus on preserving Kazakh heritage and literature, others emphasize international publishing, digital platforms, and global distribution. Writers now have unprecedented opportunities to publish academic research, children’s stories, commercial fiction, and even self-published digital works.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting is a globally recognized name in writing and publishing services, and by 2025 it has firmly established its presence in Astana. Though it started primarily as a ghostwriting agency, it now functions as a hybrid publisher, offering authors a complete journey from manuscript to market.
What They Offer:
- Professional ghostwriting for authors who need help developing their ideas.
- Editing, proofreading, and book formatting tailored for both print and digital.
- Cover design and illustration services.
- Distribution through international and local platforms.
- Marketing support including SEO optimization, social media campaigns, and press release writing.
Barnett Ghostwriting is ideal for writers who prefer an all-in-one solution. Its ability to handle every stage of publishing makes it attractive for first-time authors as well as professionals aiming for global reach.
2. Foliant Publishing
Foliant is one of Kazakhstan’s leading publishing houses and a cornerstone of the local book market. Headquartered in Astana, it has been publishing for decades and remains trusted by authors and readers alike.
Key Strengths:
- Known for its children’s books, featuring outstanding illustrations.
- Publishes in Kazakh, Russian, and English, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- Large catalog including educational books, history, and cultural works.
- Extensive distribution network across Kazakhstan.
Foliant is a reliable choice for authors looking to publish works that appeal to family, educational, and cultural readers.
3. Arys Publishing
Arys is deeply rooted in Kazakhstan’s cultural and academic publishing sector. It has built a reputation for producing scholarly works, historical studies, and literary criticism.
Focus Areas:
- Academic texts in the humanities and social sciences.
- Publications on Kazakh history and heritage.
- Translation of classical works into Kazakh and Russian.
- Collaborations with universities and researchers.
For authors aiming to contribute to intellectual discourse and historical preservation, Arys Publishing is a highly respected platform.
4. Meloman Publishing
Meloman is well-known as a retail giant in Kazakhstan, but its publishing arm is equally strong. It has developed into one of the most influential commercial publishers in Astana.
Specializations:
- Popular genres: romance, fantasy, detective fiction, and thrillers.
- Offers strong retail placement in Meloman stores nationwide.
- Marketing power through events, signings, and cross-promotion.
- Engages with both local and international authors.
Meloman is the right choice for authors who want mainstream exposure and high sales potential.
5. Steppe & World Publishing
Steppe & World Publishing bridges Kazakh identity with global readership. It actively participates in international book fairs and encourages authors to publish works that highlight Central Asian culture.
Key Features:
- Focus on literary fiction and cross-cultural storytelling.
- Strong emphasis on translation into English for global audiences.
- Partnerships with European and Asian distributors.
- Encourages diverse voices and experimental narratives.
Authors who want their work to resonate both locally and internationally will find Steppe & World a fitting choice.
6. Kazakh University Press
This publishing arm of major universities in Astana is central to the academic ecosystem. It focuses on peer-reviewed, high-quality scholarly publishing.
Areas of Expertise:
- Textbooks, research journals, and monographs.
- Subjects include science, humanities, law, and medicine.
- Collaboration with professors and researchers.
- Distribution to academic institutions and libraries.
Researchers and academics benefit from prestige and credibility when publishing through Kazakh University Press.
7. Eurasian Media Group Publishing
This publisher is part of a large media conglomerate and reflects the fusion of print and digital in modern publishing.
Highlights:
- Lifestyle, business, and motivational non-fiction.
- Publishes ebooks and audiobooks alongside print.
- Works with celebrities, influencers, and public figures.
- Modern marketing strategies and wide online reach.
For authors who want to build a personal brand and gain recognition beyond books, Eurasian Media Group is a strong partner.
8. Samga Publishing
Samga is widely recognized for its children’s literature and YA fiction. By 2025, it has also expanded into graphic novels and interactive digital books.
Key Features:
- Specializes in children’s books with strong illustrations.
- Focus on teen and young adult fiction.
- Collaborations with schools and reading programs.
- Introduces interactive ebooks with multimedia content.
Samga provides opportunities for authors passionate about young readers and visual storytelling.
9. Qazaq Literature House
Qazaq Literature House is dedicated to nurturing national talent. It focuses primarily on publishing works by Kazakh authors in fiction and poetry.
Strengths:
- Encourages emerging writers through mentorship programs.
- Publishes poetry, short stories, and novels.
- Organizes cultural events and literary festivals.
- Supports translations to widen readership.
For authors who want to contribute to Kazakh identity and literature, this publisher offers strong community support.
10. Astana Digital Publishing
One of the newest entrants, Astana Digital Publishing has embraced the digital-first model. It provides services tailored to the online world.
Key Features:
- Ebooks and audiobooks with global online distribution.
- Affordable publishing packages for indie authors.
- Analytics-driven marketing for better visibility.
- Quick turnaround time compared to traditional presses.
This is perfect for tech-savvy authors who want immediate access to a global digital market.
Cost and Services Comparison Table (2025 Estimates)
| Publisher | Focus Area | Publishing Model | Avg. Cost (USD) | Best For |
| Barnett Ghostwriting | Hybrid / Full Services | Hybrid | $3,000 – $8,000 | First-time & global authors |
| Foliant Publishing | Children, Education | Traditional | $1,500 – $4,000 | Family, cultural themes |
| Arys Publishing | Academic, History | Traditional | $2,000 – $5,000 | Researchers, historians |
| Meloman Publishing | Popular Fiction | Traditional | $2,500 – $6,000 | Commercial writers |
| Steppe & World | Literary & Cross-Cultural | Traditional | $2,000 – $5,500 | Literary fiction |
| Kazakh University Press | Academic & Research | Traditional | $1,000 – $3,500 | Academics, students |
| Eurasian Media Group | Business, Lifestyle | Hybrid | $2,500 – $7,000 | Public figures, entrepreneurs |
| Samga Publishing | Children, YA, Graphic Novels | Traditional | $1,500 – $4,500 | Children’s & YA authors |
| Qazaq Literature House | Poetry, Fiction | Traditional | $1,000 – $3,000 | Local emerging writers |
| Astana Digital Publishing | Ebooks, Audiobooks | Digital-first | $500 – $2,500 | Indie & digital authors |
Conclusion
Astana’s publishing industry in 2025 reflects a rich blend of tradition and innovation. Established publishers like Foliant and Arys safeguard cultural and academic knowledge, while newer entrants like Astana Digital Publishing offer authors quick, affordable access to global readers. Companies such as Barnett Ghostwriting and Eurasian Media Group push hybrid and marketing-focused strategies, giving writers end-to-end support.
With such diversity, Astana has transformed into a literary hub where authors from all backgrounds—scholars, novelists, poets, and entrepreneurs—can find the right publishing partner. For writers, the choice now depends on their genre, audience, and publishing goals.
FAQs
Q1. How much does it cost to publish a book in Astana in 2025?
Costs range from $500 for digital publishing to $8,000 for full hybrid packages.
Q2. Which publisher is best for children’s books in Astana?
Foliant and Samga specialize in children’s and YA literature.
Q3. Can authors publish in English through Astana publishers?
Yes, companies like Steppe & World and Barnett Ghostwriting support English-language publishing.
Q4. What is the fastest way to publish a book in Astana?
Astana Digital Publishing offers the quickest turnaround via digital-first models.
Q5. Which publishing company supports new Kazakh writers the most?
Qazaq Literature House is dedicated to emerging Kazakh authors.
