Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons
Alexander Machkevich (1954-2025) was an Israeli-Kazakh businessman and philanthropist. His wealth stemmed from the mining and metals industries, and he was a major shareholder in the Eurasian Resources Group (ERG). Throughout his career, he was involved in strengthening Jewish communities, particularly in Central Asia, and supported numerous educational and cultural initiatives. He held both Kazakh and Israeli citizenship.
Alexander Machkevich was born on February 23, 1954, in Frunze, Kyrgyz SSR, Soviet Union. His parents were Jewish. He graduated from Kyrgyz State University with a degree in philology and began his career in academia, eventually becoming a dean at the Kyrgyz Pedagogical Institute.
Machkevich transitioned to business during the perestroika era. Along with partners Patokh Chodiev and Alijan Ibragimov, he formed what became known as "The Trio." They gained control of chromium, alumina, and gas operations in Kazakhstan. They founded the Eurasian Natural Resources Corporation (ENRC), a major player in mining and metals. ENRC was later privatized to form the Eurasian Resources Group (ERG). Machkevich served as chairman of the board of directors of ERG from 2014 to 2024.
Machkevich's business success was built on strategic acquisitions and capitalizing on Kazakhstan's rich natural resources. His key business ventures focused on mining, metallurgy, logistics, finance, and energy production. ENRC became a major contributor to the Kazakh economy.
Beyond his business ventures, Machkevich was a committed philanthropist, especially in support of Jewish causes. He founded the Kazakhstan Jewish Congress and served as president of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress (EAJC). He also funded the construction of synagogues, mosques, and churches. His philanthropic efforts earned him recognition from the Kazakh state.
Received a degree in philology.
Became the youngest candidate of science in pedagogy and psychology.
Associate professor and head of the faculty at Kyrgyz State University.
Transitioned to business ventures during the perestroika period.
Co-founded Eurasian Natural Resources Corporation (ENRC) with partners.
Founded the Kazakhstan Jewish Congress and became its first president.
Became the president of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress (EAJC).
Served as chairman of the board of directors of Eurasian Resources Group.
Died on March 22, 2025, at the age of 71.
Funded the construction and renovation of synagogues, mosques, and churches in Kazakhstan.
Supported the EAJC, which connected Jewish communities in the former Soviet Union, Central Asia, and elsewhere.
Supported historical and educational projects related to Holocaust remembrance.
"We have to find – every day – new, creative ways to respond to challenges, which we get every, every, every day the last few thousand years."
Dedicated to strengthening and uniting Jewish communities.
Committed to giving back to society through financial contributions.
Committed to creating spaces for peaceful coexistence among the country's religious groups.
Accused in Belgium of a $55 million money-laundering scheme; paid a fine with no admission of guilt.
ENRC, controlled by Mashkevich and his partners, was probed by the U.K. government for corruption related to activities in Africa and Kazakhstan. The case was closed in 2023 without charges.
