The National Bank of Kazakhstan has responded to issues related to the exchange of old-style US dollar banknotes, reports the “Adyrna” national portal.
Citizens have complained about second-tier banks and non-banking exchange points refusing to accept US dollar banknotes issued between 1996 and 2013. The National Bank clarified that these banknotes remain legal tender. It also emphasized that if the authenticity of the banknotes is confirmed and they are undamaged, they must be accepted at exchange points within Kazakhstan without any commission fees.
“If the banknotes are undamaged and deemed suitable for circulation, the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan does not provide for any commission fees when exchanging foreign currency banknotes. A commission may only be charged for banknotes deemed unfit for payment or circulation,” the statement said.
Citizens can file complaints with the local branches of the National Bank for specific incidents. This includes cases where exchange points charge a commission, discriminate based on the year of issuance of the banknotes, or refuse to exchange currency without valid reason.
“Complaints should include the location of the exchange point, detailed information about the issue, and any supporting documents. The National Bank will review the information and take appropriate measures within the framework of the law,” the statement concluded.
