Uzbekistan to boost rare mineral industry with $2.6 billion investment

On March 7, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on expanding the raw material base for critical industrial minerals and producing high-value-added products, according to the presidential press service.

Uzbekistan has identified deposits of more than 30 metals, including tungsten, molybdenum, magnesium, lithium, germanium, graphite, vanadium, and titanium. Previously, this sector did not receive adequate attention, and investments were not made in the exploration of rare minerals, the processing of industrial waste, or the production of finished products.

In recent years, an organizational framework has been established in this field, and efforts have begun to produce valuable high-value-added products. During the presentation, Minister of Mining Industry and Geology Bobur Islamov outlined the potential in this area.

To expand the raw material base, additional funding will be allocated for geological exploration and scientific research.

At the meeting, it was emphasized that the main objective is to extract valuable raw materials directly from ore using modern technologies, increase mineral purity, and create high-value-added products. For example, enriching tungsten concentrate from the "Ingichka" deposit will double its added value. Currently, 18 such projects have been developed.

To strengthen the "raw materials – processing – science and technology – finished products" chain, technoparks have been proposed in the Tashkent and Samarkand regions, which are rich in molybdenum and tungsten.

The head of state instructed the authorities to facilitate technology transfer and introduce advanced expertise in this sector, establish modern laboratories and training centers. Additionally, it was noted that in the context of the "Fourth Industrial Revolution," it is necessary to build a solid foundation to secure a strong position in this market.