Wednesday, 9 April

An overview of proposed changes to the Tax Code affecting the mining industry, including the incentives for geological exploration, a reduction in the Mineral Extraction Tax (MET) and incentives for mineral processing. Transition to a royalty system, its consequences and practical recommendations for adapting to a changing regulatory environment. Key considerations for establishing mining enterprises in Kazakhstan, with a focus on the government’s policy of collaborating with international companies to encourage investment and drive economic growth.

A discussion on resource depletion issues and strategies for geological exploration activities. Changes in government policy, including incentives for geological research and tax reforms to attract investments in domestic and foreign capital markets. Government initiatives aimed at implementing digital technologies, including artificial intelligence for data processing and interpretation. The potential for new geological discoveries driven by the intensification of airborne geophysical surveys and the transition to detailed mapping at a scale of 1:500,000.

How will the new Water Code of Kazakhstan and the introduction of handbooks on best available technologies (BAT), along with the Subsoil and Subsoil Use Code, strengthen the regulation of water use in the mining industry? Strategies, technologies and best practices for the rational and efficient use of water resources in mining.

Kazakhstan has adopted the “Law on Science and Technology Policy” aimed at stimulating scientific and innovative activities. It establishes technology readiness levels for scientific research, strengthens the Science Fund’s role in commercializing scientific developments, and introduces new mechanisms for funding scientific infrastructure and providing government support for science. The law is expected to create favourable conditions for the development of science and technology in the country, promote the production of science-intensive products, and enhance the competitiveness of Kazakhstan’s economy.

Kazakhstan has significant mineral potential, but large-scale investments are needed to fully realise it. According to government data, $1 billion of private investment has been attracted in geology over the past five years. The Government is planning to spend around $ 140 million on various mineral exploration activities and programs between 2025-27. For comparison, in 2024 state funding of geological exploration exceeded $ 1 billion. Chile allocated $ 832 million for geological research. What role do international exchanges and national stock exchanges; institutional investors and banks play in financing exploration projects in Kazakhstan?