Digital Transformation of Courier Logistics in Kazakhstan: Drivers and Barriers

In the context of accelerated digitalization of the economy, the growth of e-commerce and increasing requirements for sustainable development, courier logistics is becoming one of the key elements of the modernization of urban transport and logistics systems. The purpose of this article is to study the drivers and barriers of the digital transformation of courier logistics in Kazakhstan, as well as to develop conceptual directions for its sustainable development in the context of a smart city. The research methodology consists of an analysis of strategic and regulatory documents, a review of international scientific publications, and correlation and factor analyses. The empirical basis of the study is official statistical data from the Bureau of National Statistics and the World Bank, as well as primary sociological and expert materials. The results of the study showed that in 2023-2024, the volume of e-commerce in Kazakhstan increased from 1.60 to 2.44 trillion tenge, and the share of online marketplaces was about 85%. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between the development of courier services and GDP per capita (r = 0.946; p < 0.01), as well as with foreign trade turnover (r = 0.897; p < 0.01). Based on the results, a matrix for digital transformation of courier logistics in Kazakhstan is proposed, and a set of strategic recommendations to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the last mile of delivery is formulated. The findings can be used to develop government policy, smart city urban programs, and digital development strategies for logistics companies.