Kazakhstan will roll out a three-year programme of advanced subsurface studies aimed at improving the accuracy of geological forecasting, according to the Ministry of Industry and Construction. A central element of the initiative is the transition to geological mapping at a scale of 1:50,000, which is four times more detailed than the Soviet-era standard of 1:200,000.
In 2025, authorities approved 20 projects covering a total area of 100,000 square kilometres. During the next stage, around 30,000 square kilometres of the most prospective territories are expected to be studied annually. Funding of 240 billion tenge, or about $500 million, has been allocated for geological exploration of 20 sites, seismic surveys in poorly studied sedimentary basins, and the creation of a digital geological data infrastructure. This represents the largest level of investment in the sector in the past 15 years.
The programme includes analysis of satellite imagery, aerogeophysical and geochemical surveys, as well as extensive fieldwork. Areas were selected based on declining reserves, the absence of active subsoil users, and strong potential for key minerals. Priority targets include zones prospective for copper, gold, lead, zinc, rare earth metals, barite and bauxite.
Special focus will be placed on oil and gas potential. Seismic surveys are planned in the North Torgai, Shu-Sarysu and Syrdarya basins, alongside upgrades to laboratory facilities and the digitisation of geological data.
According to Ulzhabay Ismailov, генеральный директор GeoByte-Info, mapping at a 1:50,000 scale makes it possible not only to chart territories in detail but also to reconstruct geological history, identify ore distribution patterns and better assess exploration prospects. Refining forecast resources in the R3 and R2 categories will help more precisely select targets for subsequent exploration, he said.
