Kazakhstan is intensifying its search for rare earth metals, which are in high demand on the global market, with exploration activities now underway at 12 sites across the country, according to Azernews. The Minister of Industry and Construction, Kanat Sharlapayev, shared the latest developments, highlighting the promising potential of the Kuirektykol site in the East Kazakhstan region. Estimated reserves at this site are around 800,000 tons, with projected resources totaling 935,400 tons of rare earth metals, including cerium and lanthanides.
Private companies, such as Cove Capital and HMS Bergbau, are leading the exploration efforts. These companies, along with other subsurface users, are also actively exploring for copper and other valuable minerals. In 2023, investment from 10 companies totaled approximately 41 billion tenge (roughly $77.7 million), which allowed for the examination of over 25,000 square kilometers of land.
Kazakhstan’s mineral resource base continues to grow, with the country now hosting 987 deposits of solid minerals. Over the past 30 years, the reserves of critical minerals such as iron, manganese, gold, uranium and oil and gas have significantly expanded.
As global demand for rare earth metals rises—driven by industries such as electronics, electric vehicles and renewable energy—Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a vital player in the global supply chain. With its vast mineral wealth, the country is well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for these essential materials, playing a key role in the world’s green energy and technology sectors.
