Abstract:

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of consumer purchasing attitudes and habits in Kazakhstan, with a specific focus on informal economic practices. The study aims to provide a better understanding of consumer behaviours within the informal economy and contribute to the formulation of policy recommendations aimed at reducing the adverse impact of informal practices in the country.

The research method employed in this study involved the distribution of a survey to a representative sample of 200 participants across the country’s 17 regions and 3 cities of republican significance. The survey covered a wide range of topics, including demographics, social perceptions, trust and beliefs, consumption habits, and opinions. The data collected from the survey were analysed to identify patterns and trends in consumer behaviour, particularly in relation to informal economic practices.

The central findings of the research revealed significant insights into the prevalence of informal economic activities in Kazakhstan, including the extent to which consumers engage with informal businesses and the factors influencing their purchasing decisions. The study also shed light on the level of trust in public institutions, the frequency of requesting receipts for purchases, and the perceptions of sanctions for engaging in non-compliant behaviour.

The relevance of these findings to the larger body of scholarly literature lies in their contribution to the understanding of informal economic practices in transitional economies, particularly in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. By providing empirical evidence of consumer behaviours and attitudes in the context of informal economic activities, this research adds valuable insights to the existing literature on informal economies and their implications for economic development and governance.