MINEX Forum

Website: Asia.com

  • East Star Resources Advances Gold Exploration Joint Venture with Endeavour Mining in Kazakhstan

    East Star Resources Advances Gold Exploration Joint Venture with Endeavour Mining in Kazakhstan

    East Star Resources Plc (LSE: EST), a gold and copper exploration company focused on Kazakhstan, has provided an update on its joint venture (JV) with Endeavour Exploration Limited, a subsidiary of Endeavour Mining plc (LSE: EDV, TSX: EDV). This strategic partnership, announced on 13 November 2025, allows Endeavour to earn a 51% interest in the JV by funding US$5 million in qualifying exploration expenditures over a two-year earn-in period that commenced on 15 May 2026. Since the JV’s inception, both companies have made significant strides in establishing a robust technical and operational framework for systematic gold exploration across two Areas of Interest in northern Kazakhstan, which spans over 300,000 square kilometres on the highly prospective Kazakh orocline.

    Key achievements to date include the completion of field visits and geological reconnaissance across 15 priority targets, the submission of new exploration licence applications covering over 930 square kilometres, and the establishment of an in-country technical team comprising two senior geologists and four junior geologists. Additionally, the JV has compiled and reviewed both historical and modern geological datasets, utilising AI-assisted translation and spatial searchability tools to enhance data accessibility. A large-scale review of the geotectonic settings of mineral provinces within the Areas of Interest has also commenced, employing a hybrid traditional and AI-assisted approach for prospectivity mapping.

    With the operational framework now firmly in place, the JV is set to advance into more systematic field exploration, which will include geological mapping and soil and geochemical sampling once the licence applications are granted. Alex Walker, CEO of East Star Resources, expressed optimism about the JV’s progress, stating, “The joint venture has been fully established and is moving into systematic exploration. We have completed considerable work programmes across data compilation, field reconnaissance, licence applications, staffing, equipment and funding. Our focus is increasingly shifting towards field exploration and systematic testing of the most prospective gold targets.”

    The exploration targets include Intrusion Related Gold (IRG) systems, a distinct class of gold deposit characterised by a single fertile igneous intrusion acting as both the source of gold and hydrothermal fluid. These deposits are linked to I-type, ilmenite-series granitoids in post-collisional or extensional continental settings. Notably, the Vasilkovskoe deposit, located in northern Kazakhstan, exemplifies a classical IRG deposit with over 15 million ounces of total mineral resources as of 2011. The geological setting in Kazakhstan, particularly within its Palaeozoic belts, is considered favourable for discovering further IRG deposits, given its shared tectonic architecture and magmatic age with established IRG provinces globally.

  • BASS Gold Expands Resource Base with Acquisition of Polymetallic Deposit in Kazakhstan

    BASS Gold Expands Resource Base with Acquisition of Polymetallic Deposit in Kazakhstan

    Kazakhstan’s BASS Gold has announced the expansion of its resource base through the acquisition of a new mining asset, a polymetallic deposit located in the Ulytau region. The company has secured a controlling stake (51%) in Sary Arka Resources Ltd., which operates the ‘Alashpai’ project through its subsidiary, TSO ‘Saryarka Polymetals’. This strategic move is set to enhance BASS Gold’s mining portfolio significantly.

    According to BASS Gold’s press service, extensive exploration activities have been conducted at the site, with over 60,000 linear meters of drilling completed between 1991 and 2020. The balance reserves of ore in categories C1 and C2 exceed 5.5 million tonnes, indicating a substantial resource base for future extraction. The Alashpai deposit is reported to contain 260,650 tonnes of lead, 11,000 tonnes of zinc, and 42,830 tonnes of barite, alongside silver, although the exact quantity of silver has not been disclosed.

    BASS Gold plans to develop the deposit using open-pit mining methods. The company has already transitioned from the acquisition phase to practical operations, with preparations underway at the site, including infrastructure development and the organisation of production processes. The company aims to sequentially increase its production capacity as part of its growth strategy.

    The Alashpai deposit complements BASS Gold’s existing asset, the Ushshoky mine, where significant infrastructure has already been established. This includes the construction of an administrative and residential centre, a refuelling complex, and a central warehouse. Additionally, the company is in the process of erecting a crushing and sorting complex, incorporating automation systems and artificial intelligence technologies to enhance ore sorting efficiency.

    This acquisition and subsequent operational developments signal BASS Gold’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the mining sector and optimising its resource extraction capabilities, positioning the company for future growth in the competitive mining landscape of Kazakhstan.

  • Kazakhstan’s Unified Subsoil Use Platform: A Digital Revolution in Mining Licensing

    Kazakhstan’s Unified Subsoil Use Platform: A Digital Revolution in Mining Licensing

    Kazakhstan has made significant strides in modernising its mining sector with the introduction of the Unified Subsoil Use Platform (EPN), which has been operational for a year and a half. This digital initiative includes an investment geological map that allows users to select promising mineral sites and navigate the licensing process entirely online, eliminating the need for cumbersome bureaucratic procedures. By 2028, the platform aims to integrate nearly all historical geological data collected over decades, including reports on exploration and assessment work for various solid minerals.

    Prior to the EPN’s launch on January 1, 2025, obtaining licenses and accessing geological archives in Kazakhstan was a lengthy and complicated process, often taking months or even years due to a lack of digitised information and administrative barriers. The platform has already streamlined operations for investors and companies involved in mineral exploration and extraction, including critical minerals. It has brought together 3,000 subsoil users, 22 state services, and 109,000 studied area contours, reducing licensing procedures by 45% and decreasing the workload on government employees by 35%. The speed of data processing has improved significantly, and human error has been largely eliminated.

    Malik Olzhabekov, the Vice Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, highlighted the transition from paper-based applications to an integrated digital ecosystem, which has simplified the submission process for companies. The platform’s success was discussed at the MINEX Kazakhstan 2026 forum, where industry experts explored its potential to enhance international investor confidence in Kazakhstan’s geological data.

    The development of the EPN took a decade, with input from IT specialists, subsoil users, and geologists. The project drew inspiration from successful geological portals in countries like Finland, Canada, and Australia, focusing on creating a comprehensive geological portal for Central Asia. Future enhancements include geo-analytics tools, mobile support, and international integration for foreign investors.

    The platform is not merely an IT product; it represents a complete digital management mechanism covering the entire lifecycle of subsoil use. Users can now apply for licenses and select available mineral sites on an interactive map without the need for intermediaries. The platform also features an electronic wallet for payments and has automated reporting processes, which were previously managed manually.

    As of 2025, approximately 4.7 million documents have been digitised, including historical geological records dating back to the Soviet era. The project aims to digitise five million archival data units by the end of 2026. The next phase involves integrating these data into a geoinformation system that will allow more precise analysis of mineral exploration prospects. The use of Big Data and AI will facilitate the classification and interpretation of geological data, enhancing the platform’s functionality.

    The EPN’s operator, the National Geological Service, is funded by a percentage of mining costs, ensuring sustainability. The platform has already created a prototype system with an initial data load of one terabyte. The integration of various state resources into a single ecosystem is expected to significantly improve investment conditions in Kazakhstan’s mining sector, reducing geological exploration risks and expediting project financing decisions.

    Overall, the Unified Subsoil Use Platform is poised to revolutionise Kazakhstan’s mining industry by providing a reliable, accessible, and efficient digital framework for subsoil use, ultimately enhancing the sector’s attractiveness to both local and international investors.

  • Kazakhstan’s Rare Earth Elements: A Growing Market and Investment Opportunities

    Kazakhstan’s Rare Earth Elements: A Growing Market and Investment Opportunities

    The demand for rare and rare earth elements is on the rise, with the global market for rare earth minerals expected to exceed $7.2 billion by 2025 and reach $12.6 billion by 2035, according to World Bank analysts. This marks a significant increase of nearly 46% in global demand from 2020 to 2025, with China currently dominating the market. The success of China’s long-term strategy has positioned it as a key player in the global supply chains of these critical resources, prompting resource-rich Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries to take proactive measures.

    Kazakhstan, with estimated reserves of approximately 28.2 million tonnes of rare earth metals, has the potential to become a significant player in this sector. However, much of these resources need further exploration and confirmation. The country boasts over 9,000 mineral deposits, with around 100 containing rare and rare earth elements. Despite this extensive resource base, Kazakhstan faces challenges in realising its potential amidst high global competition, a lack of necessary technologies, and funding.

    To navigate these challenges, a well-coordinated mechanism is required that balances all stages of the process: exploration, attracting investment, government support measures, scientific research, mining, and processing. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov highlighted the importance of critical minerals as key resources in the new industrial era during his speech at the XVI International Mining and Metallurgy Congress Astana Mining & Metallurgy – 2026 (AMM) in June. He noted that Kazakhstan’s significant mineral resource potential could secure the country a prominent position in these processes.

    In April, discussions on how Kazakhstan can maximise its benefits from the growing international interest in critical minerals took place at the Minex Kazakhstan – 2026 mining and geological forum. Experts shared insights on China’s experiences and strategic proposals from investors in other countries, underscoring the importance of collaboration and strategic planning in the development of Kazakhstan’s mining sector.

  • Kazakhstan to Revive Manganese Mining at Jezdinskoye Deposit Amid Rising Global Demand

    Kazakhstan to Revive Manganese Mining at Jezdinskoye Deposit Amid Rising Global Demand

    Kazakhstan’s limited liability company, primarily engaged in mineral extraction services, has announced public hearings scheduled for October regarding the Jezdinskoye manganese deposit in the Ulytau region. The annual production capacity of Jezdinskoye is reported to be 334,165 tonnes of ore, containing 19.3% manganese, which could yield approximately 62,000 tonnes of pure metal annually.

    As reported by Inbusiness.kz, the majority of Kazakhstan’s manganese ore reserves are located in the Atasui and Jezdinskoye-Ulytau mining districts of Central Kazakhstan. The Jezdinskoye deposit is one of the oldest operational manganese mining sites in the country, with mineralisation discovered as early as the 1920s and exploration commencing at that time. However, geological studies of the Jezdinskoye group were halted by the early 1990s due to the depletion of the richest and most accessible ore sections.

    Currently, the revival of exploration and extraction activities is being considered due to a significant increase in global demand, particularly from Russia’s defence industry. According to the analytical system ‘Indexbox’, global demand for metallic manganese is projected to increase by 30-50% by 2035, driven by the battery sector and special steels, with an expected annual growth rate of 3-4%.

    Exploratory work at the Jezdinskoye deposit is scheduled to commence in 2027, with extraction planned to begin two years later. The mining plan anticipates extraction of 307,000 tonnes of ore annually, potentially lasting until 2051. Historically, the annual production at the mine was around 175,000 tonnes, with manganese content averaging 18-19%.

    The new project will initiate operations at the southeast section of the deposit, specifically at shaft 6-bis. Access will be facilitated through vertical ventilation shafts, with ore transported via conveyor. The extraction of reserves is planned to reach depths of minus 200 metres.

    Despite the moderate industrial development of Kazakhstan’s deposits, a significant portion of the explored ores is classified as non-balance due to high phosphorus and silica content or low manganese levels. Nevertheless, Kazakhstan ranks third globally in explored manganese reserves and second among CIS countries.

  • Uzbekistan and Germany Strengthen Mining Cooperation

    Uzbekistan and Germany Strengthen Mining Cooperation

    On 9 September, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Mining Industry and Geology, B. Islamov, hosted a meeting with a German delegation led by Klaus Mangold, Chairman of Mangold Consulting GmbH, in Tashkent. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in the mining sector, particularly regarding Uzbekistan’s vast mineral resources. Officials from the Uzbek Metallurgical and Technological Metals Plant provided insights into the plant’s operations, current production capabilities, and ongoing efforts to develop and process strategic mineral resources.

    The meeting also featured a presentation from representatives of Mercedes-Benz AG, who delivered a report titled ‘Uzbek-German Raw Materials Dialogue.’ This report outlined the potential for industrial collaboration between Uzbekistan and Germany, highlighting the mineral and raw material potential of Uzbekistan and the opportunities for joint projects. The dialogue underscored the importance of technological advancements and investment cooperation between the two nations.

    Both parties expressed a commitment to further develop their partnership in mining and strategic raw materials. They agreed to explore promising areas for collaboration and to maintain an ongoing dialogue to facilitate the implementation of joint initiatives. This meeting marks a significant step towards strengthening ties between the two countries in the mining sector, with a focus on leveraging Uzbekistan’s rich mineral resources for mutual benefit.

  • Zijin RG Gold Unveils New Gold Processing Plant Project in Akmolinsk Region

    Zijin RG Gold Unveils New Gold Processing Plant Project in Akmolinsk Region

    In a significant development for the mining sector, Zijin RG Gold has unveiled plans for a new gold extraction plant at the Raigorodok deposit in the Burabay district of the Akmolinsk region. The new facility is designed to process 10 million tonnes of ore annually, which will enhance the total processing capacity of the mining complex to 16 million tonnes per year upon completion. This announcement was made during a ceremonial capsule-laying event at the project site, marking a pivotal moment for the company and the local mining industry.

    The Raigorodok deposit has already seen the successful launch of a processing plant in 2022, which has a processing capacity of 6.5 million tonnes of ore per year. This initial facility has allowed Zijin RG Gold to develop the necessary production and engineering expertise for further exploration and development of the deposit. The addition of the second gold extraction plant is expected to yield an additional 7 tonnes of gold in doré alloy, bringing the total gold production at the Zijin RG Gold processing complex to over 12 tonnes annually.

    Currently, Zijin RG Gold employs more than 1,800 people, with 51% of the workforce being residents of the Akmolinsk region. The expansion of production is anticipated to create further opportunities for local specialists, suppliers, and contractors, thereby contributing to the economic development of the area. This project not only underscores Zijin RG Gold’s commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities but also highlights its role in fostering local employment and economic growth in the region.

  • Kazakhstan Proposes Full-Cycle Critical Materials Projects to South Korea

    Kazakhstan Proposes Full-Cycle Critical Materials Projects to South Korea

    During the first business summit between Central Asia and South Korea, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed the establishment of a comprehensive portfolio of investment projects focused on critical materials. These projects would encompass the entire value chain, from geological exploration and extraction to deep processing and production. This initiative aims to strengthen economic ties between Kazakhstan and South Korea, with the Kazakh government pledging to oversee the implementation of these projects.

    Tokayev announced that approximately 80 commercial agreements worth around $19 billion were signed during his visit to South Korea. He emphasised that these agreements are not mere intentions but concrete plans, with the government committed to ensuring timely execution. Critical materials, including copper, chrome, and titanium, are identified as strategic resources by South Korea, and Tokayev highlighted the potential for collaboration in this sector.

    In addition to critical materials, Tokayev invited South Korean companies to participate in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, which has seen significant growth in container traffic. The Kazakh government plans to increase the route’s capacity from 6 million to 10 million tonnes over the next two years, creating a dedicated portfolio of infrastructure projects for South Korean investors.

    Another initiative discussed was the establishment of a Centre for Advanced Technologies, potentially based at Alem.ai in Astana. Tokayev noted the launch of two supercomputers in Kazakhstan and the ongoing project to create a data centre valley with a capacity of one gigawatt.

    Tokayev pointed out that Kazakhstan accounts for approximately 60% of Central Asia’s total GDP and about 70% of foreign direct investment inflows into the region. The combined GDP of Central Asian countries and South Korea approached $550 billion last year, with growth rates exceeding 6%. This strategic partnership aims to enhance economic cooperation and drive sustainable development in both nations.

  • Kazatomprom’s Strategic Shift: Balancing Production and Long-Term Value in a Rising Uranium Market

    Kazatomprom’s Strategic Shift: Balancing Production and Long-Term Value in a Rising Uranium Market

    Kazakhstan’s state-owned Kazatomprom, the world’s largest uranium miner, is strategically increasing its production while prioritising long-term value over immediate volume, even as uranium prices soar. The company is enhancing exploration efforts both domestically and internationally to secure its production capabilities for the future. Notably, Kazatomprom’s sales to Asia have surged, accounting for 56% of its sales in 2025, driven by significant long-term contracts with state-owned utilities in the region.

    In an interview at the World Nuclear Symposium in London, Dastan Kosherbayev, Chief Strategy and International Development Officer, elaborated on Kazatomprom’s approach to navigating the evolving market landscape. Despite the increasing demand for uranium—fueled by the expansion of nuclear reactors and the rise of AI power requirements—Kazatomprom is committed to a disciplined production strategy. This approach ensures that supply aligns closely with actual demand, avoiding the pitfalls of oversaturation in the market.

    To bolster its geopolitical positioning, Kazatomprom has ramped up alternative shipping routes, with up to 65% of its Western-bound shipments now using the Trans-Caspian ‘Middle Corridor’ to circumvent reliance on Russian routes. This strategic pivot not only secures deliveries to Western utilities but also enhances the company’s operational resilience.

    Kazakhstan, which already contributes approximately 40% of global uranium production, is also focusing on expanding its nuclear fuel cycle capabilities. The company’s Development Strategy for 2025–2034 aims to integrate the entire nuclear fuel chain within Kazakhstan, including conversion and enrichment processes. While these initiatives are seen as lucrative, Kazatomprom is cautious about expanding output, ensuring that it does so without compromising on quality or facing technological and geopolitical barriers.

    Additionally, Kazatomprom is exploring the potential for extracting high-value rare earth elements, such as scandium, from its mining operations, although natural uranium remains the primary revenue driver, accounting for 90% of its income. This dual focus on uranium and rare earth elements reflects a broader trend in the mining industry towards diversification and value addition, positioning Kazatomprom as a key player in the future of nuclear energy and resource extraction.

    Kazatomprom is also actively participating in the 70th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, showcasing Kazakhstan’s advancements in the nuclear industry and engaging in bilateral talks with international partners. The conference serves as a platform for strengthening dialogue and cooperation in the nuclear sector, highlighting Kazakhstan’s commitment to the safe and peaceful use of nuclear energy.

  • Azerbaijan Launches Digital Course for Mining Operations Specialists

    Azerbaijan Launches Digital Course for Mining Operations Specialists

    In a significant step towards modernising vocational education in Azerbaijan’s mining sector, “AzerGold” CJSC, in collaboration with the State Agency on Vocational Education under the Ministry of Science and Education and “Aspire EdTech”, is set to launch an online course for the “Mining Operations Specialist” qualification. This initiative marks the first of its kind in Azerbaijan, aiming to enhance the skills of students and graduates from specialised vocational institutions in Ganja and Dashkasan.

    The digital course, which has been meticulously developed based on a comprehensive curriculum, will feature a blend of traditional teaching methods and innovative digital resources. It will include 250 video lessons and 1,500 test questions, all crafted with the expertise of specialists from “AzerGold” CJSC. This approach is designed to provide a robust educational experience that not only imparts theoretical knowledge but also prepares students for practical applications in the field.

    In addition to the primary course, the initiative will also produce 15 informative video lessons focusing on essential trades such as locksmithing, welding, and electrical work. This expansion aims to further enhance the accessibility of vocational training and ensure that the educational content aligns with the evolving demands of the labour market.

    The overarching goal of this digital education initiative is to cultivate a skilled workforce that meets the needs of the mining industry, which is increasingly reliant on modern technologies and practices. “AzerGold” CJSC has emphasised its commitment to educational development, recognising the importance of strengthening human resources within the sector.

    Since 2021, the company has been actively supporting students through a Scholarship Program, which has awarded monthly scholarships to 98 students, including those pursuing higher education and vocational training. Notably, 19 of these scholarship recipients have secured employment within various structural units of “AzerGold” CJSC, underscoring the programme’s success in bridging the gap between education and industry employment.

    This initiative not only represents a significant investment in the future of Azerbaijan’s mining sector but also highlights the importance of integrating digital technology into vocational education to better prepare students for the challenges of the modern workforce.