MINEX Forum

Website: Kazakhstan.com

  • Хозяин цветной руды: каким странам Казахстан продает титан и алюминий. Инфографика

    Хозяин цветной руды: каким странам Казахстан продает титан и алюминий. Инфографика

    Казахстан сократил продажи всех видов цветного металла за рубеж, передает LS.

    За 11 месяцев 2023 года из страны вывезли 364,4 тыс. тонн меди. Это меньше на 12,6%, чем за аналогичный период 2022 года. Казахстан заработал на экспорте данного металла $2,9 млрд.

    Основной покупатель – Китай – снизил объемы закупки на 16,3%, до 216,4 тыс. тонн ($1,7 млрд).

    Также снизился экспорт в Грузию в 2,4 раза (16,8 тыс. тонн), Великобританию – в 1,8 раза (6,6 тыс. тонн) и ОАЭ – в пять раз (4,8 тыс. тонн).

    При этом в Турцию продали больше меди в 1,6 раза (106,8 тыс. тонн), в Латвию – в 155,7 раза (10 тыс. тонн).

    Поставки алюминия за рубеж сократились на 13,4%, до 206,7 тыс. тонн, или $527 млн.

    Его закупили: Турция – 62,6 тыс. тонн (+1,9 раза), Азербайджан – 55,8 тыс. тонн (+903 раза), Узбекистан – 25,6 тыс. тонн (-33%), Грузия – 17,9 тыс. тонн (-2,7 раза), Россия – 11,7 тыс. тонн (-19,6%) и Япония – 5,5 тыс. тонн (+1,7 раза).

    Казахстан снизил также экспорт цинка на 8,5%, до 213,7 тыс. тонн ($551,6 млн).

    Сокращение наблюдается в поставках в Россию – в 1,8 раза (29,3 тыс. тонн), Турцию – в два раза (43,9 тыс. тонн), Нидерланды – в 39,7 раза (782,5 тонны) и Узбекистан – в 4,4 раза (45,6 тонны).

    А вот Вьетнам (41,4 тыс. тонн) и Китай (98,2 тыс. тонн) увеличили закупку цинка в 3,2 раза и 6,1 раза соответственно.

    Продажа свинца упала на 9,4% (72,7 тыс. тонн). его везли в в Турцию, Вьетнам, Польшу, Китай, Сингапур и Россию.

    Экспорт титана сократился на 17%, до 11,9 тыс. тонн. Страны-покупатели – Франция, Бельгия, Южная Корея, США, Италия и Великобритания.

    Более подробная информация о продажах цветных металлов представлена в инфографике.

  • Owner of non-ferrous ore: to which countries does Kazakhstan sell titanium and aluminum. Infographics

    Owner of non-ferrous ore: to which countries does Kazakhstan sell titanium and aluminum. Infographics

    Kazakhstan has reduced sales of all types of non-ferrous metals abroad,  LS reports .

    Over the 11 months of 2023, 364.4 thousand tons of copper were exported from the country . This is 12.6% less than for the same period in 2022. Kazakhstan earned $2.9 billion from the export of this metal.

    The main buyer, China, reduced purchase volumes by 16.3%, to 216.4 thousand tons ($1.7 billion).

    Exports to Georgia also decreased by 2.4 times (16.8 thousand tons), the UK – by 1.8 times (6.6 thousand tons) and the UAE – by five times (4.8 thousand tons).

    At the same time, more copper was sold to Turkey by 1.6 times (106.8 thousand tons), to Latvia – by 155.7 times (10 thousand tons).

    Aluminum supplies abroad decreased by 13.4%, to 206.7 thousand tons, or $527 million.

    It was purchased by: Turkey – 62.6 thousand tons (+1.9 times), Azerbaijan – 55.8 thousand tons (+903 times), Uzbekistan – 25.6 thousand tons (-33%), Georgia – 17 .9 thousand tons (-2.7 times), Russia – 11.7 thousand tons (-19.6%) and Japan – 5.5 thousand tons (+1.7 times).

    Kazakhstan also reduced zinc exports  by 8.5%, to 213.7 thousand tons ($551.6 million).

    A reduction is observed in supplies to Russia – by 1.8 times (29.3 thousand tons), Turkey – by two times (43.9 thousand tons), the Netherlands – by 39.7 times (782.5 tons) and Uzbekistan – 4.4 times (45.6 tons).

    But Vietnam (41.4 thousand tons) and China (98.2 thousand tons) increased the purchase of zinc by 3.2 times and 6.1 times, respectively.

    Sales of lead fell by 9.4% (72.7 thousand tons). he was taken to Turkey, Vietnam, Poland, China, Singapore and Russia.

    Titanium exports decreased by 17%, to 11.9 thousand tons. Buying countries are France, Belgium, South Korea, USA, Italy and Great Britain.

    More detailed information on sales of non-ferrous metals is presented in the infographic.

  • Министерство геологии и охраны недр предложили создать в Казахстане

    Министерство геологии и охраны недр предложили создать в Казахстане

    Оно должно будет разрабатывать госпрограммы исследования недр на перспективу.

    По словам мажилисмена Армана Калыкова, государство обязано усиленно работать над тем, чтобы разработка наших месторождений приносила существенные блага для народа Казахстана, развивала инфраструктуру населенных пунктов, социальных объектов, создавала рабочие места,  передает Inbusiness.kz.

    “То есть, в задачи госорганов должно быть включено не только предоставление права недропользования, но и обеспечение должного государственного контроля за месторождениями и рациональное их использование в интересах народа. Действующий кодекс “О недрах и недропользовании” подтверждает, что мало разведанные и слабоизученные территории без геологических данных о перспективах участка для инвестора не интересны и лицензии на право недропользования выдаются в основном по месторождениям и рудопроявлениям, выявленные до периода независимости Казахстана”, – сказал он.

    Если ранее государством регулировалась выдача права недропользования путем проведения аукционов с учетом стратегических планов развития, то открытие программы управления государственным фондом недр в прошлом году способствует передаче в недропользование всех ранее выявленных месторождений и рудопроявлений на принципе “первый пришел-первый забрал”, продолжил депутат.

    “Исчерпание объектов интереса инвесторов (месторождений и рудопроявлений) ожидается в течение 3-5 лет. Создание новых объектов интереса, усложняется тем, что рентабельные для разработки месторождения в большей степени уже открыты, а поиск новых месторождений является сложной задачей. При этом, необходимо учесть, что от открытия месторождения до начала промышленной эксплуатации может пройти порядка 10-15 лет. Указанное происходит на фоне исключения принципов экономически эффективного освоения всех видов ресурсов недр на основе использования передовых технологий и современной экологической практики разработки месторождений”, – считает он.

    Заинтересованные государственные органы в части твердых полезных ископаемых полностью самоустранились от регулирования отрасли, отдав недра на откуп рынку, подчеркнул  Калыков.

    “В созданном климате недропользователю выгодно подготавливать собственные отчеты без обеспечения полноты и комплексного изучения недр, предусматривающие выборочную разработку богатых участков на месторождениях. Если ранее процесс отработки месторождения регулировался государством, путем вовлечения в разработку участков одновременно с богатыми и малыми содержаниями, то сейчас понятие комплексного и рационального использования недр утрачено. В данный момент отработка запасов ведется варварским, хищническим способом. Указанному эффекту также способствует исключение контрольных функции. Государственный контроль в текущих условиях проводится только по данным отчётностей, предоставляемых самим недропользователем”, – пояснил он.

    Следует обратить внимание на тот факт, что в стране активно развивается бесконтрольная добыча полезных ископаемых, которая может привести к негативным последствиям в будущем, предупредил мажилисмен.

    “Одним из факторов имеющихся проблем в геологии – частые структурные преобразования (13 реорганизаций) и передача Комитета геологии из одного министерства в состав другого. В результате данных преобразований система государственного управления недрами Казахстана разобщена между целым рядом государственных органов. В этой связи, для системного развития геологической отрасли видится целесообразным создание отдельного государственного органа – министерства геологии и охраны недр. Данное министерство должно будет разрабатывать государственные программы исследования недр на перспективу и текущие 3-5 летние периоды, обеспечение восполнения минерально-сырьевой базы, что в свою очередь приведет к максимально экономическому эффекту от государственно-частного партнерства в освоении сырьевых ресурсов”, – резюмировал он.

  • The Ministry of Geology and Subsoil Protection was proposed to be created in Kazakhstan

    The Ministry of Geology and Subsoil Protection was proposed to be created in Kazakhstan

    It will have to develop state subsoil research programs for the future.

    According to Majilisman Arman Kalykov, the state is obliged to work hard to ensure that the development of our deposits brings significant benefits to the people of Kazakhstan, develops the infrastructure of settlements, social facilities, and creates jobs, Inbusiness.kz reports.

    “That is, the tasks of government agencies should include not only granting the right to subsoil use, but also ensuring proper state control over deposits and their rational use in the interests of the people. The current Code “On Subsoil and Subsoil Use” confirms that poorly explored and poorly studied territories without geological data on the prospects of the site are not interesting for investors and licenses for the right to subsoil use are issued mainly for deposits and ore occurrences identified before the period of independence of Kazakhstan,” he said.

    If previously the state regulated the issuance of subsoil use rights by holding auctions taking into account strategic development plans, then the opening of a program for managing the state subsoil fund last year facilitates the transfer for subsoil use of all previously identified deposits and ore occurrences on the “first come, first take” principle, the deputy continued.

    “The depletion of objects of interest to investors (deposits and ore occurrences) is expected within 3-5 years. The creation of new objects of interest is complicated by the fact that fields that are profitable for development have already been discovered to a large extent, and the search for new fields is a difficult task. At the same time, it is necessary to take into account that about 10-15 years may pass from the discovery of a deposit to the start of commercial operation. This occurs against the backdrop of the exclusion of the principles of cost-effective development of all types of subsoil resources based on the use of advanced technologies and modern environmental practice of field development,” he believes.

    The government agencies interested in solid minerals have completely withdrawn from regulating the industry, leaving the subsoil to the market, Kalykov emphasized.

    “In the current climate, it is beneficial for the subsoil user to prepare their own reports without ensuring completeness and comprehensive study of the subsoil, providing for the selective development of rich areas in the fields. If previously the process of developing a deposit was regulated by the state, by involving in the development of areas with both high and low contents, now the concept of integrated and rational use of subsoil has been lost. At the moment, reserves are being mined in a barbaric, predatory way. This effect is also facilitated by the exclusion of control functions. State control in the current conditions is carried out only according to reporting data provided by the subsoil user himself,” he explained.

    Attention should be paid to the fact that uncontrolled mining is actively developing in the country, which could lead to negative consequences in the future, the Majilisman warned.

    “One of the factors behind the existing problems in geology is frequent structural changes (13 reorganizations) and the transfer of the Geology Committee from one ministry to another. As a result of these transformations, the system of state management of the subsoil of Kazakhstan is fragmented between a number of government bodies. In this regard, for the systematic development of the geological industry, it seems advisable to create a separate government body – the Ministry of Geology and Subsoil Protection. This ministry will have to develop state subsoil research programs for the future and current 3-5 year periods, ensuring the replenishment of the mineral resource base, which in turn will lead to the maximum economic effect from public-private partnerships in the development of raw materials,” he concluded.

  • ПРИГЛАШЕНИЕ НА КОНФЕРЕНЦИЮ

    ПРИГЛАШЕНИЕ НА КОНФЕРЕНЦИЮ

    Уважаемые коллеги и участники индустрии,

    Члены “Казахстанской Горнорудной Палаты” успешно осуществляют свою деятельность в Казахстане, и в основном, привлекли свои инвестиции в страну после введения в 2018 году нового Кодекса РК “О Недрах и недропользовании”. Этот Кодекс обеспечивает гораздо большую ясность и эффективность процессов и представляет собой значительный прогресс в направлении того, чтобы сделать Казахстан ведущей державой в области добычи минеральных ресурсов.

    На предстоящей Конференции, которая состоится 22-го февраля 2024 года в г. Астана, мы будем обсуждать важнейшие вопросы, связанные с законодательством, процессами и геологическими перспективами горнорудной отрасли и совместно формировать будущее этого стратегически важного сектора.

    Присоединяйтесь к нам для важнейшего диалога.

    Место: Отель Sheraton Astana, г.Астана

    Дата и время: 14.00 – 20.00, 22-ое февраля 2024 года

    По вопросам медиа-партнерства и спонсорства можно обращаться к г-же Таскын Кошман на taskyn@chamberofmines.kz.

     

    С наилучшими пожеланиями,

    Казахстанская Горнорудная Палата

  • SAVE THE DATE!

    SAVE THE DATE!

    Dear colleagues and industry participants,

    The Kazakhstan Chamber of Mines members are happy to be actively operating in Kazakhstan. The Chamber’s members have largely invested in Kazakhstan following the introduction of the new Subsoil code in 2018. This code represents a significant advancement in transparency and process efficiency compared to previous experiences with subsoil use. It marks a crucial step toward realizing Kazakhstan’s potential as a minerals powerhouse.

    We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Сonference, scheduled for February 22, 2024, in Astana. The conference will explore crucial subjects concerning legislation, processes, and geological prospects within the mining industry. Together, we will actively participate in molding the future of this strategically important sector.

    Save the date for this essential dialogue!

    Venue: Sheraton Astana Hotel, Astana, Kazakhstan

    Date and Time: 02:00 PM – 08.00 PM, 22nd of February 2024

    For inquiries regarding media partnership and sponsorship, please contact Taskyn Koshman at: taskyn@chamberofmines.kz

    Kazakhstan Chamber of Mines

  • BHP Xplor’s 2024 Global Exploration Program: Spotlight on Kazakhstan’s Exciting Projects

    BHP Xplor’s 2024 Global Exploration Program: Spotlight on Kazakhstan’s Exciting Projects

    The world of natural resource exploration is witnessing a surge in innovation and strategic investment, particularly evident in BHP Xplor’s 2024 Global Exploration Program. BHP, a leading global resources company, has recently unveiled its latest cohort of six projects, carefully selected from a staggering 500 applicants. Notably, two of these promising projects are based in Kazakhstan, a country rich in mineral resources and increasingly significant in the global energy transition narrative.

    BHP’s involvement goes beyond financial support. They bring a wealth of expertise in exploration, ecology, environmental impact, and governance. Access to a network of service providers and international experts enhances East Star Resources’ capabilities.

    Pallas Resources Revolutionising Mineral Exploration with Innovative Strategies

    Pallas Resources benefits from a substantial financial boost, receiving up to US$500,000 in non-dilutive funding from the BHP Xplor program. This funding is pivotal for accelerating exploration activities over a defined area of interest, particularly in the pursuit of significant copper systems. Importantly, this agreement does not entail equity acquisition by BHP in either Pallas or any of its projects.

    Pallas Resources, a Central Asian explorer, is redefining mineral exploration with its disciplined and strategic approach. Focusing on the under-explored yet highly prospective regions of Kazakhstan, Pallas is at the forefront of uncovering large-scale systems of copper, gold, nickel, and lithium. These efforts are not merely exploratory but a leap towards realizing the untapped potential of regions that were once renowned for their Tier 1 Soviet-era discoveries.

    East Star Resources pursuing two parallel exploration strategies

    Kazakhstan holds enormous potential for copper exploration, akin to Western Australia in the 1970s. With two world-class copper projects already identified in a vast area, the odds are that more remain undiscovered. East Star Resources is pursuing two parallel exploration strategies. While the VMS (Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide) projects remain a focus due to their excellent return on invested capital, the grant from BHP will fund the copper porphyry exploration. This dual approach maximizes their chances of success in a burgeoning copper market.

    BHP recognises this prospectivity and views East Star Resources as a valuable partner in unlocking this potential awarding the company with $500,000 in grant funding.

    References:

    Interview with Alex Walker the CEO of East Star Resources following news that the company have received $500,000 in grant funding from BHP Xplor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moa-GEWA6w8

    Business Wire News release: Pallas Resources Selected to Participate in the BHP Xplor Program
    https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240123572930/en/

    BHP Xplor announces second program helping to accelerate critical resources exploration
    https://www.bhp.com/news/media-centre/releases/2024/01/bhp-xplor-announces-second-program-helping-to-accelerate-critical-resources-exploration

  • Pallas Resources Selected to Participate in the BHP Xplor Program in Kazakstan

    Pallas Resources Selected to Participate in the BHP Xplor Program in Kazakstan

    Revolutionising Mineral Exploration with Innovative Strategies

    Pallas Resources, a Central Asian explorer, is redefining mineral exploration with its disciplined and strategic approach. Focusing on the under-explored yet highly prospective regions of Kazakhstan, Pallas is at the forefront of uncovering large-scale systems of copper, gold, nickel, and lithium. These efforts are not merely exploratory but a leap towards realizing the untapped potential of regions that were once renowned for their Tier 1 Soviet-era discoveries.

    BHP Xplor Program: A Gateway to Unprecedented Opportunities

    The inclusion of Pallas Resources in the prestigious 2024 BHP Xplor program marks a significant milestone for the company. This global accelerator program, initiated by BHP, the world’s largest mining entity, targets innovative, early-stage mineral exploration companies. The objective is clear: to discover the critical resources essential for advancing the energy transition.

    Strategic Collaboration and Advanced Exploration Techniques

    The BHP Xplor program provides an exclusive opportunity for Pallas Resources to collaborate with leading experts in the field. This six-month engagement involves interdisciplinary workshops, where knowledge and expertise are shared across BHP’s extensive network and the exploration cohort. Such collaboration is not only about sharing ideas but also about de-risking geological concepts and testing new theories in mineral exploration.

    Financial Backing and Non-Dilutive Funding

    Pallas Resources benefits from a substantial financial boost, receiving up to US$500,000 in non-dilutive funding from the BHP Xplor program. This funding is pivotal for accelerating exploration activities over a defined area of interest, particularly in the pursuit of significant copper systems. Importantly, this agreement does not entail equity acquisition by BHP in either Pallas or any of its projects.

    Data-Driven Exploration and Big-Picture Approach

    The success of Pallas Resources in securing a place in the BHP Xplor program is largely attributed to its extensive digitized datasets and holistic approach to mineral systems targeting. This data-driven method ensures a more accurate and efficient exploration process, setting a new standard in the industry.

    Future Outlook: Testing New Concepts and Making Major Discoveries

    Simon Cooper, CEO & Director of Pallas Resources, expresses his enthusiasm for the company’s participation in the BHP Xplor program. This involvement is a testament to Pallas’s commitment to unlocking Kazakhstan’s significant, yet unrealized, mineral potential. The use of the program’s proceeds will be instrumental in accelerating exploration efforts and testing innovative concepts, particularly in the quest for major copper discoveries.

    BHP: A Leader in Mining and a Catalyst for Change

    BHP, the initiator of the Xplor program, stands as the world’s largest mining company and a top producer of iron ore, copper, nickel, and metallurgical coal. With its diverse portfolio of tier 1 assets globally, BHP is not only a leader in the mining industry but also a catalyst for change and innovation. The Xplor program, launched in 2023, is a clear indication of BHP’s commitment to fostering collaboration and advancement in the mineral exploration sector.

  • The five largest gold mines in operation in Kazakhstan

    The five largest gold mines in operation in Kazakhstan

    There are more than 1322 gold mines in operation globally, of which 127 are in Kazakhstan, according to GlobalData’s mines and projects database. The following are the five largest gold mines by production in Kazakhstan in 2022, according to GlobalData’s mining database, which tracks more than 33,000 mines and projects from early exploration to closure across more than 150 countries and over 100 commodities.

    1. Altyntau Kokshetau Mine
    The Altyntau Kokshetau Mine is a surface mine located in Akmola. It is owned by Glencore Plc and produced an estimated 395.47 thousand ounces of gold in 2022. The mine will operate until 2031.

    2. Kyzyl Project
    Located in East Kazakhstan, the Kyzyl Project is owned by Polymetal International Plc. The surface mine produced an estimated 330 thousand ounces of gold in 2022. The mine will operate until 2050.

    3. Varvara Mine
    The Varvara Mine is located in Kostanay. It is owned by Polymetal International Plc and produced an estimated 211 thousand ounces of gold in 2022. The mine will operate until 2039.

    4. Abyz Mine
    The Abyz Mine, owned by Kazakhmys Holding Group, is a surface mine located in Karagandy. The mine produced an estimated 135.26 thousand ounces of gold in 2022. The mine will operate until 2024.

    5. Bozshakol Mine
    Owned by KAZ Minerals, the Bozshakol Mine is a surface mine located in Pavlodar. It produced an estimated 121.97 thousand ounces of gold in 2022. The mine will operate until 2060.

     

  • East Star Resources Secures 500 000 USD from BHP Xplor for Copper Exploration in Kazakhstan

    East Star Resources Secures 500 000 USD from BHP Xplor for Copper Exploration in Kazakhstan

    Introduction

    BHP has announced its second cohort of six companies, chosen from a pool of over 500 applicants, to join the BHP Xplor* accelerator program.

    BHP Xplor is a global accelerator program targeting innovative, early-stage mineral exploration companies to find the critical resources necessary to drive the energy transition.

    Out of six companies, BHP Xplor invited two companies to explore copper and other base and precious metals in Kazakhstan.: Pallas Resources and East Star Resources. Both companies will receive up to US$500,000 in non-dilutive funding. Proceeds will go toward accelerating exploration over a defined area of interest hunting significant copper systems.

    A Momentous Achievement for East Star Resources

    East Star Resources’ CEO, Alex Walker, expressed his gratitude for the grant and highlighted the extensive application process. BHP, known for their stringent due diligence, selected East Star Resources as a partner, signalling the potential of their copper exploration project in Kazakhstan.

    The Application Process

    The application process involved pitching an exploration concept, a task that required careful planning and consideration. Copper porphyries, known for their complexity and substantial financial requirements, presented a challenging proposition for East Star Resources. However, with the guidance of their new director, Chris Van Weck, they formulated a compelling exploration concept.

    BHP’s Role

    BHP’s involvement goes beyond financial support. They bring a wealth of expertise in exploration, ecology, environmental impact, and governance. Access to a network of service providers and international experts enhances East Star Resources’ capabilities.

    The Significance of Prospectivity

    Kazakhstan holds enormous potential for copper exploration, akin to Western Australia in the 1970s. With two world-class copper projects already identified in a vast area, the odds are that more remain undiscovered. BHP recognises this prospectivity and views East Star Resources as a valuable partner in unlocking this potential.

    Dual Exploration Strategies

    East Star Resources is pursuing two parallel exploration strategies. While the VMS (Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide) projects remain a focus due to their excellent return on invested capital, the grant from BHP will fund the copper porphyry exploration. This dual approach maximizes their chances of success in a burgeoning copper market.

    Financial Prudence

    It’s essential to use the grant wisely. East Star Resources aims to de-risk the project with the initial funding, making it an attractive proposition for future investors. While there is no specific obligation tied to the funding, having BHP as a potential partner is a significant advantage.

    Plans for Q1 and Beyond

    East Star Resources is actively building the copper porphyry exploration team and refining its strategy. With Chris Van Weck’s geological expertise, they are poised for a successful exploration campaign. The company also plans to continue advancing its VMS projects, aiming to reach drilling-ready status and apply for mining licenses.

    2024 promises to be a pivotal year for East Star Resources. With increasing demand for copper and forecasts of significant deficits in the coming years, the company’s exploration activities are well-timed. As they embark on both VMS and copper porphyry exploration, shareholders can anticipate an eventful and potentially rewarding year.

    In conclusion, East Star Resources’ partnership with BHP and their dual exploration strategies position them as a key player in the evolving copper market. As they continue their exploration journey, the mining industry and investors alike will closely watch their progress.

    Watch the interview with Alex Walker the CEO of East Star Resources following news that the company have received $500,000 in grant funding from BHP Xplor.