The CEO and founder of the OLYMP clinical diagnostic laboratory (CDL) network, Yerlan Suleimenov, has addressed President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in a public statement. According to him, the company has been facing systematic pressure from tax authorities for two years, despite court rulings in its favour.
"As the founder and CEO of the OLYMP CDL medical laboratory network, I am addressing you on behalf of our several thousand employees, patients, and everyone who believes in the development of modern medicine in Kazakhstan," stated Yerlan Suleimenov on his Facebook page.
He claims that the tax authorities are initiating an unscheduled inspection of the company's activities for the fourth time, despite courts at various levels, including the Supreme Court, having deemed the tax officials' actions unlawful due to "gross procedural violations".
"This not only diverts resources but also creates a threat to the implementation of our strategic projects," the statement reads.
The director noted that CDL OLYMP is one of the largest private laboratory networks in Kazakhstan, employing over 6,000 staff.
"All profits are reinvested in development. We are modernising laboratories and introducing the latest diagnostic technologies that were previously unavailable in Kazakhstan: world-class genetic research, mass spectrometry, expanded neonatal screening panels, and full laboratory automation. <…> The participation of German investors, who place their trust in us while also overseeing our activities, should also be noted," Suleimenov emphasised.
Courts at various levels have repeatedly supported the organisation's position; however, according to the company's head, the pressure from supervisory authorities does not cease.
"They ignore the conclusions of the Ministry of Health, which confirm that laboratory diagnostics constitute specialised medical care, and therefore qualify for the tax exemption on corporate income tax. The courts have repeatedly sided with us, but the pressure continues," the statement says.
In connection with this, Yerlan Suleimenov requests the President:
- to stop the wave of unjustified inspections that are hindering the development of projects;
- to ensure compliance with the principle of the presumption of good faith in business;
- to support dialogue between entrepreneurs and the state to prevent such situations from recurring.
The director of CDL OLYMP noted that the company is ready to share its experience and continue investing in the country's healthcare system, but for this it needs "confidence in fairness and stability".
"Kazakhstan deserves better medicine. And we are doing everything possible to make this a reality. But without your support, our efforts may be in vain," he concluded.