Tokayev orders urgent review of geology and critical metals policy in Kazakhstan

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev gave instructions on mineral resources in his address to the people of Kazakhstan, according to Nur.kz, citing the presidential administration Akorda. He said geological exploration must be radically revised, since searching for new deposits with outdated methods will not produce the required results.

He ordered the government to build a national system for managing critical metals, with long-term financing for mining projects and guaranteed demand through offtake contracts with domestic companies. The proposals are to be worked out with entrepreneurs and presented to him by the end of the year.

Tokayev also called for a national reserve of non-ferrous and rare metals and warned that new enterprises should not create unjustified obstacles for existing local companies. He cited the Qarmet metallurgical plant, noting that similar production is planned in three more regions despite unclear market demand.