The impetus to form an independent American Chamber of Commerce in Kazakhstan in 1999 came from a group of 36 charter members representing Kazakhstan's largest foreign companies. The U.S. Embassy's Commercial Service in Almaty had been serving as the center of the American business community, but as the number of American businesses increased, the community began searching for a formal mechanism through which to discuss and voice concerns on the business environment.

In 1999, AmCham's 36 charter members registered the Chamber as a legal entity in Kazakhstan. Working initially with a volunteer staff, AmCham adopted by-laws, registered as a legal non-profit organization, and started its first membership drive. The Chamber also became formally affiliated with and recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Over the past decade, the Chamber has grown to more than 200 members encompassing businesses from the American, Kazakhstani, and multi-national business communities. Its programs cover a variety of initiatives, primarily in the spheres of policy advocacy, knowledge-sharing, and business development. AmCham works closely with senior levels of the U.S. and Kazakh governments and maintains relationships with other regional AmChams and prominent international associations and organizations.

Chamber Timeline: