In this article, based on the identified historical source, a number of facts are presented that reveal the features of nomadic cattle breeding of the Kazakhs at the turn of the XIX-XX centuries. The materials presented in the article allow us to understand how the economic relations between Russia and Kazakhstan were built, what was their main subject in the time interval under consideration, what characteristic features and features were inherent in them. The structure of the functioning of product sales markets is considered, the key figures of trade relations are identified. The change of the paradigm of exchange trade to commodity-money relations is shown. The features of the action of steppe fairs are revealed. Their role in ensuring the vital activity of steppe farms of the indigenous population of Kazakhstan is revealed. In general, the great importance of nomadic cattle breeding for the provision of meat, fat and various raw materials in Russia and a number of foreign countries is stated.