During the meeting, representatives of the IBC presented a comprehensive list of key issues that affect the industry. These concerns encompassed the ban on the export of gold-bearing ores and concentrates, the onerous financial burden imposed on subsoil users, the exorbitant license retention fees spanning from October 2021 to August 2022, government intervention in industry affairs, interference by law enforcement agencies in enterprise operations, and the matter of electricity tariffs.
The meeting proved to be highly productive, as we were able to present a thorough compilation of questions prepared by esteemed members and experts of the IBC Committee on Mineral Resources. Akylbek Usenbekovich, the Prime Minister, assured us that these issues are of great concern to the government and acknowledged their acute nature. It is imperative that we adopt a proactive approach in resolving these industry challenges,” affirmed Askar Sydykov, the esteemed Executive Director of the International Business Council.
To address these concerns, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive strategy accompanied by a step-by-step plan of action. This strategy should take into account the construction timelines and operational activities of significant mining enterprises, as well as the development programs for smaller deposits. Ultimately, this will serve as the foundation for the creation of the Mining Code of Kyrgyzstan. Following the meeting, there was a mutual understanding with the government regarding many of these matters. The Prime Minister expressed his agreement that these problematic issues must be swiftly resolved, and the government is committed to taking all necessary measures to address them,” concluded Askar Sydykov.
