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MINEX Kazakhstan

9 – 10 April 2025 Astana The 15th Mining & Exploration Forum

"A New Era in Kazakhstan's Mineral Resources Development: From Exploration to Processing"

The annual MINEX Forum in Kazakhstan, held since 2010, attracts key stakeholders including ministry heads, international organisations, domestic and foreign mining companies, technology and consultancy enterprises, financial institutions, stock exchanges, investors, universities, and industry associations.
Plenary Sessions

Technical Sessions

DigiTech conference
Pitch Track Sessions
Mining Trade Show
Kazakhstan Mining Awards

WHAT TO EXPECT?

The forthcoming Forum anticipates over 100 Speakers, 450+ Delegates, 50+ Exhibitors and 1000+ exhibition visitors from Kazakhstan and 30 countries across Central Asia, Europe, North and Latin America, Africa, Australia, China, India, Mongolia, Malaysia, and New Zealand.

The Forum is poised to witness a record influx of foreign investors keen on exploring and developing precious metals, copper, coal, lithium, and uranium, as well as rare and rare-earth metal deposits, marking a historic milestone for the Forum.

Discounts available
before 31 /01 / 25

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Apply to present
before 28/02/25

Book here

Discounts available
before 31 /01 / 25

Register here

Learn more

Contact us

Apply before
31 /01 / 25

Book here

Are you ready to participate?

Exhibitors

2025

The mining sector’s share in the country’s GDP was 17% and 16% of exports in 2021. Over 230 mining and metallurgical enterprises employ approximately 273,000 people. However, despite its significant growth potential, the sector faces numerous challenges, including the depletion of certain solid mineral reserves, increasing energy costs, rising labour expenses, and complex logistical issues.

Kazakhstan’s Mining Industry

Trends and Challenges

Kazakhstan’s mineral sector is undergoing a profound transformation, characterised by the government’s large-scale initiatives to drive economic growth and diversification, as well as the implementation of progressive approaches to geological research, the development of high-value-added productions, and reducing environmental impact.

33
of the world’s output of uranium
16.5
of the world’s chrome ore reserves
13
of the world’s lead reserves
11
of the world’s zinc reserves
9
of the world’s molybdenum reserves
4.3
of the world’s copper reserves

Kazakhstan remains significantly underexplored in terms of geological surveys. Over the past 30 years, there has been virtually no greenfield exploration. The extensive geological data collected before the country’s independence are either incomplete or outdated. The scarcity of investment in geological exploration has severely hindered the development of the mining sector, resulting in only a few new projects being implemented, primarily limited to open-pit copper and gold operations. This has led to a substantial gap between the production levels of most minerals and the expansion of their resource base.

The government aims to achieve economic diversification by enhancing the competitiveness of the mining sector, through the discovery of new mineral resources, the production of higher value-added products, improved technology, and greater environmental protection. To address these challenges, the Government of Kazakhstan has launched a range of initiatives aimed at improving the investment climate, streamlining legislation, and promoting the use of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and aero-geophysical surveys.

The government is actively seeking joint ventures with foreign companies to exploit untapped mineral resources, with a focus on rare earth and other “clean energy” metals and minerals. A key priority is to increase the scale of geological exploration, with the government aiming to expand its research coverage from 1.5 million to 2.2 million square kilometres by 2026. There are also plans to shift from a 200,000-scale to a 500,000-scale map. This will help uncover hidden and complex geological formations, potentially boosting the country’s mineral resource base. These initiatives are supported by advancements in digitalisation and the adoption of artificial intelligence to improve data processing, making the industry more competitive and transparent.

Recent agreements, such as the offtake contracts and signed long-term agreements, highlight the country’s commitment to fostering collaboration between domestic producers and international industry leaders. Additionally, tax exemptions for new projects in the mineral extraction sector aim to stimulate investment and innovation.

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Industry and Construction is proposing to replace the existing Mineral Extraction Tax with a royalty system. The shift is expected to offer clearer regulatory guidance and incentivise processing minerals within Kazakhstan by applying lower taxes to domestically processed minerals. The changes are set to affect licences issued from 1 January 2026.

The Kazakhstani Parliament is discussing a new Tax Code with key amendments:

Exploration: Deductions will be allowed for both successful and unsuccessful exploration expenses, boosting investment in this area.

Mineral extraction tax (MET): MET for metals from technogenic mineral formations will be reduced by 90%.

Mineral processing: Tax incentives will be introduced for processing agreements.

Royalty tax: A new royalty model may be introduced, but only for new entrants to the industry.

Kazakhstan is committed to adopting the OECD environmental standards, with a strong emphasis on cleantech and the decarbonisation of mining operations. The Environmental Code, adopted in 2021, encourages the replacement of old technologies with more environmentally friendly ones, presenting opportunities for companies offering cutting-edge cleantech solutions.

MINEX Kazakhstan’25
Commitments

At the MINEX Kazakhstan Forum, we will bring together industry experts, government officials, and international investors to discuss the latest trends and challenges in the sector, share best practices, and explore opportunities for collaboration and investment.
The Forum will offer insights into Kazakhstan’s national efforts, with a particular emphasis on the role of state-owned and private companies in driving exploration and resource development. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities arising from Kazakhstan’s mineral wealth and the strategic steps being taken to create a more dynamic and investor-friendly mining sector. The discussions will centre around the latest technological advancements, regulatory improvements, and investment mechanisms designed to unlock the full potential of the country’s geological assets.

This event represents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to engage with the government’s vision, explore collaborative partnerships, and discover the vast opportunities Kazakhstan offers to the global mining and mineral exploration community.

Key objectives

  • Present a comprehensive analysis of the national strategy for subsoil resource development in Kazakhstan.
  • Showcase the potential of public and private programs in the field of geological exploration.
  • Discuss innovative approaches to mineral resource development.
  • Promote best practices in sustainable management of mining enterprises and the adoption of advanced methods to minimise environmental impact.

Participants will

  • Discuss proposed legislative improvements and investment mechanisms aimed at unlocking the potential of the country’s geological resources.
  • Explore the latest technological advancements and practices in the field of subsoil resource use.
  • Find partners for collaboration.
  • Gain insights into the vision and plans of the Kazakh government for the development of the mining sector.
  • Discover the vast opportunities Kazakhstan offers to the global community in the exploration, extraction, and processing of mineral resources.

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:

MINEX Kazakhstan’25

Forum overview

Driving Investment and Innovation in Kazakhstan's Mineral Sector

The forum’s sessions and panel discussions encompass a wide range of critical and aim to create a comprehensive dialogue platform that bridges policy, industry innovation, environmental responsibility, and economic development in the mining sector.

The “DigiTech’25” conference, integrated into the mainstream Forum agenda, serves as a platform for both Kazakhstani and International companies to showcase the latest advancements in the digitalization and technological innovation of mining processes. Here are some key aspects and engagement opportunities associated with this conference:

Focus Areas

The conference will cover a wide range of topics, including the evaluation of geological data, mine planning, processing, and the transportation of ores and metals. This encompasses the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics to enhance mineral exploration, site selection, sorting, and overall operations.

Technological Innovations

Presentations will highlight innovations in robotics and automation, which are crucial for reducing costs, saving time, and increasing productivity, safety, and operational efficiency in the mining sector.

AI and ESG

The conference will also delve into ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) technologies, focusing on energy consumption, waste management, water efficiency, sustainable operations, and decarbonisation strategies.

Over 50 Kazakhstani and international companies, showcasing cutting-edge technologies for mineral exploration, production, and processing, participate in the trade show organised alongside the Forum. The exhibition is expected to be visited by around 1500 mining professionals from the national and international companies active in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Book the exhibition place here
Exhibitor bookingExhibitor booking

The open-to-all pitch track sessions are integrated into the Trade Show (Exhibition) programme, offering exhibitors a platform for presenting their products, projects and services, as well as holding specialised events such as product launches, training events and seminars.

The pitch-truck sessions offer unrestricted (first-comes-basis) access to the Forum delegates as well as the Exhibition visitors. Each presenting company can invite up to 50 guests to its presentation.

Apply to present before 28/02/25
Speaker applicationSpeaker application

All presenters will have the opportunity to win a Pitch-track competition prize, with the winner determined by the highest number of “likes” received from attendees through our web application.

Don’t forget to secure your company’s presentation slot when booking your exhibition booth and invite your clients and partners to show their support by liking your pitch.

Apply to present before 28/02/25
Speaker applicationSpeaker application

The Kazakhstan Chamber of Mines is organising the first competition to celebrate technological innovations and best practices aspirations in the following categories:

  • Environmental Management
    • Community Relationship Management and Engagement
    • Occupational Health and Safety Management and People Safety
    • Most Significant Discovery or Best Technical Innovation Applied to Mining/Exploration

The winners will be announced at the Awards Gala Dinner, which will conclude the Forum on 10 April.

Learn more about this initiative

IS THIS FORUM
RIGHT FOR ME?

MINEX Kazakhstan is one of the pioneer events established in 2010 with the aim of meeting in one place the entire value chain of Kazakhstan’s mining industry. Are working for or managing one of the below mentioned organisations? Then, most likely, you will find yourself “at home” at MINEX Kazakhstan Forum.

PARTICIPANTS DYNAMICS

2023 vs 2024

Major mining or metallurgical company active in Kazakhstan and CIS region

Junior mining company active or looking for opportunities in Central Asia

Mining Equipment or Technology producer looking for new customers

Mining Equipment or Technology producer or distributor

Supply chain manager responsible for procurement of metals and minerals

IT or AI company offering automation, robotisation or digitalisation solutions

Environmental consultancy offering services to mining and metals industries

Company specialised in processing metals and ores

Water management company, technology or service provider

Senior government official, regulator or geological survey

Investment company or fund looking for acquisition and investment opportunities

Multi Governmental organisation with the portfolio of projects in extractive industries

Legal or Audit company specialised in mining and metallurgical sectors

Non-governmental organisation with the members involved in mining and environmental sectors

Academic or Research body developing solutions for Extractive and Processing Industries

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General information:

Where will the Forum be held?

The Forum will take place on the 9 and 10 April 2025 at the Radisson Hotel Astana, Sary Arka Avenue 4, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan.

Can you recommend a hotel?

We recommend the Radisson Hotel Astana, which is the venue for the Forum. Alternatively, the Park Inn hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the Forum location. Please use the provided discount booking forms for your accommodation.  More information.

Do you provide hospitality services?

Please contact the Radisson Astana Hotel, who will be happy to help you organise airport transfers and recommend local leisure activities.

Email: reservation.astana@radisson.kz

Direct Phone: +7 7172 67 00 34/35/36

Registration and Payment:

Is there a fee to attend the Forum?

Yes, pre-registration and payment are required to attend. Be sure to check for early bird registration discounts.

Is there a fee to visit the exhibition?

No, entry to the exhibition is free. However, pre-registration is required to access the Forum’s web application and be eligible for prise draws.

What payment methods are accepted for the Forum participation?

You can pay via bank transfer in US Dollars, British Pounds, Euros, or Kazakhstani Tenge, or by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, China UnionPay (CUP), Discover & Diners Club, eftpos Australia, and Japan Credit Bureau (JCB)). Credit card payments are processed through the Stripe platform.

Can I purchase a ticket to the Gala Dinner separately?

No, tickets for the Gala Dinner can only be purchased as part of a Forum delegate package.

Accessibility and Participation:

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible. Please let us know your accessibility requirements when confirming Forum participation or registering for exhibition access.

Is smoking permitted at the venue?

Smoking is limited to designated smoking areas outside the hotel and the cigar bar. Smoking is not allowed in other locations on the premises.

Do you provide remote participation option?

The Forum is an in-person event only. However, access to the Forum materials will be available for purchase after the event.

Can I attend the Forum as a non-participating viewer?

Unfortunately, this option isn’t available. However, you are welcome to attend the free Pitch Trucks sessions alongside the exhibition.

Do you provide simultaneous translation?

Yes, registered delegates will have access to simultaneous translation during Forum sessions.

Will I have access to the list of attendees?

Yes, registered participants (excluding exhibition-only attendees) will receive access to our Forum web application prior to the event. This app allows you to view participant profiles, exchange digital business cards, schedule 1-on-1 meetings, and more. Exhibition visitors will have a limited app view with exhibitor information and schedule of the open events.

Dietary Preferences:

How do I inform you of my dietary preferences or allergies?

Please provide detailed information about your dietary preferences or allergies in the comments field when registering for the Forum. To ensure your needs can be met, please note that the venue requires 3-5 business days’ notice.

Event Materials:

Will presentations and other materials be available after the Forum?

Registered Forum delegates will have access to presentation slides, video recordings of keynotes and Pitch-Up sessions, and photos. These materials will be available approximately two to three weeks after the Forum concludes.

Policies and Invitations:

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Please refer to the Terms and Conditions for detailed information.

What security measures are in place to protect participant data?

We value your privacy. Please refer to our Privacy Policy, which outlines the measures taken to protect your personal information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Kazakhstan?

Please check the entry and visa requirements based on your citizenship.

Can you provide an official invitation letter to attend the Forum?

Yes, please complete the request form with your information and details about your organisation.

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