In the first half of 2024, Uzbekistan's coal production surged, with nearly 3 mn tons extracted, as it was disclosed on July 9, during a meeting with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewing future plans for critical investment projects.
The joint-stock company Shargunkumir achieved full operation of mechanized complexes, yielding a daily output of 3.5 thousand tons. Plans for the remainder of the year include ramping up coal extraction to over 5 mn tons, targeting distribution to thermal power plants, residential sectors, and local trading.
The country's geology sector also highlights substantial foreign investments, such as a $400mn commitment from Henan, China, to develop the Nishbash field. This initiative aims to enhance underground coal mining and processing capacity significantly, projecting an annual enrichment of up to 5mn tons.
Uzbekistan's abundant kaolin reserves are also under strategic development. Current efforts yield 396 thousand tons annually, with plans under the Geology Program 2024-2025 to expand production notably across seven fields, aiming for a total output of 2.7 mn tons. Furthermore, a partnership with Turkish firm "Bab Energy ve Petrol Urunleri A.S." will focus on enriched kaolin production, expected to generate 70 thousand tons per year and create 40 new jobs at the Apartak-3 deposit in the Tashkent region.
In response to the critical need for technological advancements in the mineral sector, Uzbekistan has established the Uzbek Technological Metals Plant. This joint stock company is spearheading 34 projects worth $40mn, concentrating on scientific research, technological innovation, and geological exploration.
The country's collaboration with international partners remains robust, highlighted by a recent $10mn grant agreement with South Korea's KIGAM Institute. This initiative will support the search for rare minerals, technological research, and digitalization efforts.
With ongoing projects totaling $800mn in collaboration with China, Uzbekistan continues to prioritize expanding geological exploration and advancing value-added products from its rich mineral resources.
Comments (0)