On March 7, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on the development of strategic mineral resources and the manufacture of high-value-added products.
The country has identified deposits of more than 30 metals, including tungsten, molybdenum, magnesium, lithium, germanium, graphite, vanadium and titanium. However, until recently, this sector had not received sufficient attention, with minimal investment in rare mineral exploration, industrial waste processing and finished product manufacturing.
In recent years, an organizational framework has been established, enabling the manufacture of high-value-added products. During the presentation, the Minister of Mining Industry and Geology outlined the industry’s development prospects.
Over the next three years, Uzbekistan plans to implement 76 projects worth $2.6 billion, covering the extraction and processing of 28 types of rare minerals. Additional funding will be allocated for geological exploration and research to expand the country’s resource base.
The primary objective is to efficiently extract valuable raw materials from ores using modern technologies, enhance mineral purity and make high-value-added products. For instance, enriching tungsten concentrate from the Ingichka deposit is expected to double its added value. Currently, 18 similar projects have been developed.
To establish a complete production cycle-from raw materials and processing to research and finished products-technoparks are proposed in Tashkent and Samarkand regions, where significant molybdenum and tungsten reserves are located.
The president instructed authorities to facilitate technology transfers, adopt best industry practices, and establish modern laboratories and training centers. He emphasized that in the era of the “Fourth Industrial Revolution”, Uzbekistan must lay a strong foundation to strengthen its position in the global rare minerals market. (UzDaily)
