Uzbekistan is embarking on a significant transformation of its geological sector, aiming to attract up to $30 billion in investments by 2030 through the implementation of digital solutions and artificial intelligence. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev recently presented an ambitious plan to modernise the mining and geological industries, highlighting the need for a comprehensive national geological database to enhance global investor interest in new projects. Currently, Uzbekistan lacks a unified geological data platform, unlike Kazakhstan, which has had its Unified Subsoil Use Platform operational since 2025. The establishment of a digital geological map is deemed essential, as it will integrate historical data with current information, thereby improving the attractiveness of Uzbekistan’s geological resources to international investors.
To facilitate this transformation, Uzbekistan plans to digitise over 36,000 reports and other information sources stored in various formats. This process is expected to take several years, drawing on the experiences of Russia and Kazakhstan, which have already undertaken similar initiatives. The new Centre for Technological Transformation will oversee the digitisation efforts, which will include compiling geological maps, drilling data, laboratory results, and production indicators into a single electronic database. Such a consolidation is anticipated to enhance the efficiency of discovering new mineral deposits.
The government’s strategy includes leveraging artificial intelligence to expedite the analysis of geological data, improve resource estimation, and enhance drilling operations. Specific targets have been set, including a 10% reduction in the cost of geological exploration and a doubling of the speed at which new deposits are identified. Additionally, the number of investment proposals is expected to quadruple as a result of these digital advancements.
Currently, only 40% of Uzbekistan’s mineral resources have been explored, but the government is keen to increase this figure significantly. By 2030, the country aims to boost its reserves of gold, silver, and copper substantially. Uzbekistan is home to over 30 types of critical minerals and is actively pursuing 76 investment projects worth approximately €2.4 billion. However, further exploration is necessary for some deposits, particularly for rare earth metals and uranium.
The government has outlined plans for 44 projects between 2026 and 2030 that will incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning in geological activities, focusing on six key mining enterprises. These projects aim not only to automate production processes but also to enhance geological exploration through digital transformation. The use of advanced technologies, including digital geological modelling, is already being implemented by major companies like the Navoi Mining & Metallurgy Combinat.
Furthermore, Uzbekistan is working on a geospatial monitoring system to ensure transparency and accountability in the mining sector. This system will require all mining operators to submit their reports in a machine-readable format, facilitating quicker and more accurate verification of compliance with regulations. The geospatial monitoring initiative aims to prevent illegal activities and ensure adherence to environmental standards, using aerial and satellite technology to monitor mining operations effectively. As of June 2026, information on over 2,000 mineral deposits has already been integrated into this new system, marking a significant step towards a more modern and efficient geological sector in Uzbekistan.
