Global economic development is intricately linked to the exploitation of mineral resources. The UN Global Resources Outlook 2024 highlights a fourfold increase in mineral resource consumption since 1970, 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. The economic resurgence and enhanced business environment in Central Asia present fresh prospects for global enterprises. Through collaboration with both local and international firms, these nations are spearheading initiatives to replenish mineral resources, develop green energy, and modernise industrial infrastructure.

Kazakhstan stands out for its success in attracting foreign investments in mining and metallurgical industry, with over $200 billion invested in the past decade, representing 60% of the country’s total economic investment. The nation aims to boost mineral production by 40% by 2029, aligning with its National Development Plan.

Uzbekistan ranks as the second-largest metals and minerals producer and exporter in the region. The modernisation of its two major mining companies in 2024 is estimated at $8.3 billion, with foreign investments in uranium and lithium mining projected at $3.6 billion. Ambitious production increases are planned across various minerals by 2023.

Kyrgyzstan’s government values its mineral reserves, including gold, copper, and rare earths, at $500 billion, with gold mining attracting significant international interest. In 2022, there were 722 active mining licenses, including 202 for gold and 65 for other metals. The goals of Kyrgyzstan’s State Concept for the Development of the Mining Industry from 2023 to 2035 include increasing geological exploration, creating national databases, digitising geological data, harmonising methods for classifying reserves, improving production planning, and encouraging import substitution.

Tajikistan is recognised for having the world’s third-largest antimony reserves, with 62% of foreign investments in 2021 originating from China. Additionally, there are significant silver reserves, particularly in the Big Konimansur deposit, which is believed to be among the largest silver deposits globally, potentially containing 50,000 tons of the metal. The Tajik government also claims that the country holds 10% of the world’s tungsten reserves and is currently prioritising the development of 28 confirmed gold deposits, seeking foreign investment to bolster national wealth and increase foreign currency reserves.