Kazakhstan and South Korea open rare metals processing center in Almaty

A Kazakh-Korean Rare Metals Technology Center opened in Almaty on October 21, based at the Institute of Metallurgy and Ore Beneficiation of Satbayev University. According to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, scientists and engineers from both countries will develop technologies for deep processing of mineral raw materials, extraction of rare metals and production of new materials. Its main goal is to expand production of high-value-added goods in Kazakhstan.

The project is run by the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH) and the Korea Institute of Rare Metals (KORAM), with support from state bodies of both countries, under Korea's official development assistance program. KORAM Director Pak Kyung-tae said the center will introduce Korean technologies for processing and deep purification of rare metals.

The first meeting of the center's Joint Steering Committee discussed laboratory equipment timelines, specialist training and cooperation with industry. Satbayev University Rector Meiram Begentayev said research priorities will reflect the production tasks of industrial partners.