Methods and Criteria for the Effectiveness of Kazakhstan's Economic Integration in the Eurasian Economic Union

Purpose of the research. The methods and criteria for comprehensively assessing the effectiveness of a country's economic integration within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) can be identified. Three main methods for evaluating the effectiveness of economic integration within the EAEU can be distinguished. The first method is the method of trade integration among EAEU member states, which assesses the dynamics, structure, and volumes of mutual trade between the countries of the union. The second method is the method of assessing the effectiveness of economic integration based on a set of strategic priorities for economic development. The third method is the method of national competitiveness, which evaluates how participation in the EAEU affects the overall competitiveness of the national economy. Despite the fact that certain aspects of evaluation, such as competitiveness analysis, are universal, these methods will require adaptation for countries outside the EAEU. This is due to differences in the specifics of regional cooperation (e.g., in the EU or ASEAN) and integration mechanisms (such as currency or customs unions with varying regulations). Thus, the proposed methods can be developed with consideration for the specifics of the EAEU, but with some adaptation, they could also be used to assess integration in other unions. Methodology. A variety of methods were used in the course of the study: macroeconomic analysis, comparative analysis of national economic models, econometric modeling, and a comprehensive approach to assessing the achievement of economic benefits, stability, and competitiveness of the country within the framework of the EAEU. A literature review of academic works on the topic of the study was conducted, which allowed for an examination of Kazakhstan's role in the development of trade and economic relations between the member states of the EAEU. Originality / value. The originality and value of the study lie in examining the impact of global and regional integration on Kazakhstan's economic stability and development, considering the changes in the country's economy since its accession to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). This provides insights into the effectiveness of the integration and helps identify future development vectors for Kazakhstan, based on improving trade relations and strengthening economic ties among EAEU member states. Findings. Key indicators contributing to the economic benefits, stability, and competitiveness of a country within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) have been identified. It was revealed that Kazakhstan's active participation in the EAEU contributes to the more effective functioning of the national economy through the even distribution of benefits between member countries, the creation of conditions for integration in specific sectors, the elimination of barriers to the free movement of goods and services, the increase in investments, and the development of the most competitive sectors of Kazakhstan's economy. Practical recommendations have been provided aimed at establishing trusting trade and economic relations between the EAEU member states and further increasing the EAEU's economic growth rates in the long term. The role of Kazakhstan as a reliable player on the Eurasian continent (including Western and Eastern Europe, as well as other regions of Asia that are not part of the EAEU) has been substantiated, highlighting its contribution to creating conditions for the development of the Union's internal market and expanding its export potential, considering the country's transport and logistics capabilities.