MINEX Central Asia
The 10th MINEX Central Asia
Mining and Exploration Forum
19 – 20 June 2024, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
Materials
Ministry of natural resources, ecology and technical supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic
Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic
Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of Kyrgyz Republic
”The MINEX Central Asia Forum incepted in 2010 is being relaunched in the new Nomadic format.
The 10th addition of the Forum took place on 19 – 20 June 2024 in Bishkek.
On 19-20 June 2024, the 10th Mining and Exploration Forum, “MINEX Central Asia,” was successfully relaunched in Bishkek. This significant event provided a platform for showcasing investment opportunities in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan while enhancing cross-regional cooperation among Central Asian states to unlock the mineral potential of the Central Asian Altaids mineral belt. The Forum aimed to support the transition to climate neutrality, and social and economic growth. The event brought together over 300 representatives from 148 organisations and companies across 24 countries to discuss the future and scenarios for sustainable development of the mining industry in Central Asia. Notably, the Forum coincided with the removal of the moratorium on uranium and thorium mining in the Kyrgyz Republic and the introduction of several large-scale investment and technical cooperation projects with international companies such as SRK Consulting, Metso, FLSmidht, United Concrete Canvas, and InterTech Process Technology. Notably, the Toronto Stock Exchange made its historic debut in the Central Asian region with a presentation at the Forum.
Following the event, attendees had the opportunity to visit some of the region’s most innovative mining operations, including Kumtor Gold, Altyynken Gold Mine, Stewart Assay and Environmental Laboratories, and ErAdia.
Following the Forum, a series of site visits were organised to give attendees a closer look at some of the region’s most innovative and advanced mining operations. These visits included Kumtor Gold, the second-highest gold mine in the world; Altyynken Gold Mine, a world-class copper and gold mine operated by Kyrgyzaltyn and Zijin Gold; Stewart Assay and Environmental Laboratories, an independent analytical lab with over 25 years of experience in geochemical services; and ErAdia, a company specialising in producing and selling non-electric initiation systems and electronic detonators.
We are delighted to note that the Forum exceeded expectations in many ways. MINEX Forum Secretariat would like to express sincere gratitude to the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, particularly the team of the Kyrgyz Geological Service under the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision, for their hard work and dedication to making the Forum a reality. Over the last 20 years of running MINEX Forum events across Europe and Central Asia, we have rarely witnessed more enthusiasm and local support, from junior team members of the Kyrgyz companies to the highest government levels.
We would also like to extend my gratitude to the following prominent mining and technology companies for their generous support: SRK Consulting, Kumtor Gold, Altynken, KAZ Minerals Bozymchak, Stewart Assay and Environmental Laboratories, Toronto Stock Exchange & TSX Venture Exchange, Metso, FLSmidth, ERADIA, Full Gold Mining, Kichi Chaarat, Chaarat Gold Holding, Chaarat Zaav, United Concrete Canvas, and the International Business Council (IBC).
A summary of the Forum is available here.
If you missed the Forum, you could purchase post-event materials by completing this form
The dates and host-country for the 11th MINEX Central Asia Forum will be announced in due course. Please feel free to send suggestions and share ideas by emailing the Forum’s team at asia@minexforum.com.
SPONSORS
Bronze sponsor
Coffee-Breaks Sposnor
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Session Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Badge Sponsor
Bag sponsor
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Silver Sponsor
Drinks sponsor
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The MINEX Central Asia Forum will be held on the 19th and 20th June
under the Central theme “The Prospects and Scenarios for sustainable development of the Mining and Metals Industry in Central Asia”.
Register as delegate, exhibitor, sponsor speaker or knowledge partner
EXHIBITORS
State Organisation
Drilling and Blasting
Mining company
Mining company
Equipment
Mining company
Equipment
Equipment
Software
Equipment
Mining company
Equipment
Equipment
Testing and certification
Mining company
Exploration Services
Equipment
Bank & Finance
Consulting
Environmental services
State Organisation
Laboratory equipment
Equipment
“The UN Global Resources Outlook 2024 highlights a fourfold increase in mineral resource consumption since 1970”
WHY CENTRAL ASIA MATTERS?
With projections indicating a 60% rise in production and consumption by 2060. Secure access to these materials is crucial for maintaining supply chain stability and fostering economic advancement in both producing and consuming nations.
Central Asian countries – Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan possess vast mineral reserves essential for advancing clean energy technologies and achieving carbon neutrality. Through collaboration with both local and international firms, these nations are spearheading initiatives to replenish mineral resources, develop green energy, and modernise industrial infrastructure.
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a fourfold increase in mineral resource consumption since 1970
60
With projections indicating a 60% rise in production and consumption by 2060
In 2022, the trade turnover of Central Asian countries witnessed significant growth, increasing by 28.6 percent from 167.8 billion to 215.8 billion. Notably, there has been a change in the leader among trading partners in the region.
TRADE AND INVESTMENT SHIFT IN CENTRAL ASIA
The region has witnessed a significant shift towards diversification in trade and investment since 2022, with a growing focus on non-traditional markets in Europe, North America, South Asia, and the Middle East. This transformation has been made possible by the region’s traditional multi-vector policy, which has evolved into a stance of emphatic non-alignment in response to escalating conflicts. By maintaining this position, the region has attracted increased political attention from global superpowers and expanded its trade and investment ties with diverse markets and geographies, yielding economic benefits.
22.6
China's trade volume with the region reached 48.7 billion, constituting 22.6 percent of the total trade for all Central Asian countries.
18.5
The Russian Federation, while no longer the leader, remained a significant partner. It accounted for 18.5 percent of the trade turnover.
16.0
EU countries played a substantial role, contributing 16.0 percent to the overall trade.
5.8
Turkey's presence is significant representing 5.8 percent of the total trade share in Central Asia.
3.9
The Republic of Korea participated with 3.9 percent in the trade relations.
The intense diplomatic and economic efforts of Central Asian countries over the past two years have started to bear fruit. In 2024, the region is set to launch large-scale investment projects under the EU Gateway Fund and intensify business cooperation with key partners such as the UK, Japan, Korea, and the US through initiatives like the Business 5+1 platform. Additionally, the Trans-Caspian Corridor route is expected to gain popularity as a safer alternative to the traditional Northern Corridor for transit between China and Europe. Russia also plans to increase investments in energy and industrial projects in Central Asia, further boosting economic growth. Overall, the region is poised to become a hub for economic cooperation and profitable investments, bridging differences between nations.
However, to capitalise on these opportunities, Central Asia countries must address existing institutional and regulatory hurdles that hinder domestic and international businesses and investors. This requires strengthening the rule of law, promoting fair competition, implementing business-friendly tax policies, and harmonising trade, customs, and logistical standards across the region.
PARTNERS
WHAT IT THE FORUM’S TARGET AUDIENCE?
The Mining and Metals industry is one the critical pillars of the economies of Central Asia. The development of mining or exploration projects often requires participation from experts and businesses with different backgrounds. In some cases, companies developing health and safety systems for mining enterprises, had to call on the experience from NASA scientists and psychologists specialised in critical decision-making.
WHAT WILL BE DISCUSSED?
“The Forum’s agenda will offer a broad spectrum of sessions and meetings to discuss challenges and prospects for international cooperation in the following areas:”
The Forum and agenda content are driven by the following factors:
Demand vs Supply
Each country in Central Asia is pursuing its own dynamic set of objectives for their mining sectors, aiming to boost production levels, draw in international investments, and enhance both regulatory frameworks and environmental stewardship.
If you or your company or organisation believes it can provide distinctive services or products aligned with these goals, we extend you a warm welcome.
Ideas and Cutting-Edge Content
The MINEX Forum is a platform built on an open-source mindset that aligns with hi-tech industries and venture entrepreneurship. It is designed to connect people and businesses in the mining and exploration industry, particularly in Eurasia.
The forum provides opportunities for individuals and companies to share ideas, showcase R&D projects, and discuss financing and development of mining projects in emerging markets. In other words, if you have great ideas which you would like to test-drive at the Forum, we look forward to hearing from you. Please contact us via email asia@minexforum.com or contact form.
Connections, Learning and Understanding
The Forum serves as both a mechanism and an instrument for fostering connections among individuals and businesses. In our fast-paced world, filled with constant interruptions, our ability to engage and comprehend one another is diminished.
In the context of Central Asia, building personal connections and fostering trust are particularly important aspects of doing business. By leveraging a forum community, businesses can create a space for customers to connect, share their experiences, and build relationships, ultimately helping the business succeed in the region.
THE COUNTRY FOCUSED SESSIONS
The country-focused sessions play a crucial role at the Forum in introducing Central Asian regions to cutting-edge mining technology, efficient management practices, and attractive investment opportunities.
Companies and Governments interested in expanding businesses, will be able to learn from collective experiences and communicate concerted suggestions on business and trade climate improvements. The region’s shared history and cultural connections have contributed to the success of some nations in doing business there, while others have faced challenges.
The quote "The East is a wispy matter" suggests
that understanding and adapting to the cultures and business practices
of Central Asia requires time and effort.
The region has a rich history, with the ancient Silk Road trade route passing through its territories and stimulating innovation, science, poetry, philosophy, architecture, mining, and metallurgy over millennia.
One notable example of Central Asia's contributions
to science and medicine is Ibn Sina's Canon of Medicine,
published in Bukhara in 1025 AD.
The word “medicine” is derived from the Latin “ars medicina,” meaning “the art of healing,” but it is possible that Ibn Sina’s work had some influence on the development of the term. Another example of Central Asia’s cultural impact is the architectural style of the Taj Mahal, which was built by architects from the ancient trade cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. To successfully work and do business in the region, it is necessary to establish close contacts built on patience, understanding and mutual respect.
Besides facilitating exchange and connecting people and businesses, the Forum provides a backdrop for the announcement of the trade deals, business agreements and partnerships. The presence of local and international media, as well as senior government representatives, ensures that deals signed and announced at the Forum will be broadcast via multiple channels and potentially attract new deals.
If your company or organisation is interested in using the Forum platform for signing an important deal, please contact us via email asia@minexforum.com or contact form. Our team will be happy to help with publicising your success to the Forum’s audience and beyond.
CENTRAL ASIA MINING NEWS
U.S. Economic Security Hinges on Strategic Minerals from Central Asia and Beyond
U.S. economic security relies on strategic minerals from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Ukraine.
