As the world pursues advancements in energy and digital technologies, the demand for critical raw materials continues to rise on the global stage. The Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan has revealed that Kazakhstan stands out as a key player in this domain, producing and processing 19 types of critical raw materials approved by the European Union.
These raw materials, originating from Kazakhstan, find their way to various destinations including the USA, China, South Korea, Great Britain, Russia, and EU countries, showcasing the country’s significance in the international market.
Kazakhstani manufacturers are actively supplying the European market with essential metal and chemical products such as beryllium, tantalum, titanium, ammonium metavanadate, and phosphorus. Furthermore, Kazakhstan ranks among the top 10 countries globally in terms of copper production, highlighting its substantial contribution to the raw materials sector.
The country also boasts significant potential for establishing a cluster dedicated to the production of battery raw materials like nickel, cobalt, manganese, and lithium. These materials are anticipated to serve as primary sources for the burgeoning electric vehicle industry, aligning with global efforts towards sustainable transportation solutions.
However, challenges persist within the rare metals mining industry, notably stemming from reliance on imported raw materials and the aging infrastructure of production facilities. To address these issues, Kazakhstan has devised a comprehensive plan for the development of the rare earth metals industry spanning from 2024 to 2028. This initiative, guided by directives from Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined in the Address to the people of Kazakhstan titled “Economic landmark of a fair Kazakhstan,” aims to revitalize the sector and ensure its long-term sustainability.
The Ministry of Industry is actively engaged in pursuing the objectives outlined in this plan, working diligently to steer Kazakhstan’s critical raw materials sector towards a prosperous future over the next five years.