Kazakhstan’s national mining company, Tau-Ken Samruk, is preparing to develop the Kuirektykol rare earth metals deposit in the Karkaraly district of the Karaganda region, located in central Kazakhstan.
Initial exploration of the Kuirektykol site began in 2022 and concluded in November 2024. Surveyors discovered commercially viable concentrations of rare earth elements, including cerium and lanthanides, across a 64.2 square kilometer area. Four promising zones were identified, with total resources estimated at 935,400 tons and confirmed reserves of 795,800 tons. Preliminary data suggests that reserves could potentially double with further exploration.
On Monday, it was announced that Tau-Ken Samruk will lead the next phase of development, which includes pre-investment preparations such as additional geological studies, technology selection, and feasibility assessments. The company may proceed either independently or in partnership with private investors.
“This approach has already been applied to pilot projects at the Karatas (copper), Zhosabai (gold), North Katpar, and Upper Kayrakty (tungsten) deposits,” the Cabinet of Ministers noted. “The Kuirektykol site, with its significant rare-earth reserves used in semiconductors and high-powered magnets, is the next in line for development”.
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov highlighted the growth of private investment in the sector. Over the past six years, private capital in solid mineral exploration has tripled, reaching 100 billion tenge (approximately $198.6 million) in 2024. However, Bektenov also emphasized that state funding for geological exploration remains insufficient. In total, 38 promising areas with solid mineral deposits were identified across Kazakhstan in 2024.
Earlier this year, Azat Peruashev, head of the Ak Zhol parliamentary faction, called on authorities to investigate subsoil users amid concerns over the alleged uncontrolled export of rare earth metals.