After an almost two-year suspension, the Government of Kazakhstan has restored visa-free travel for 57 countries and is lifting restrictions on the organisation of major international events. Following these developments, 12th MINEX Kazakhstan Mining and Exploration Forum will be held on 6 – 7 April 2022 in Nur-Sultan.
The Forum will be organised under the general theme “Sustainable development, decarbonisation and industrial transformation” in a hybrid format which combines in-person and remote participation options.
About Minex Kazakhistan
Helding in Kazakhstan since 2010 and is one of the most impactful industry events in the Central Asia, Minex Kazakhistan was held in 2019 physically and brought together more than 450 executives from 16 countries, representing 152 mining and metals companies, ministries, geological committees, investment companies, banks, stock exchanges, service companies and mining equipment manufacturers. Over 600 people visited on-site exhibition. Over 80 experts presented at the Forum.
In 2021 the Forum was organised online and attracted more than 700 participants from Kazakhstan and overseas. Virtual 3D trade show was launched on the Forum’s digital platform creating immersive interactive opportunities throughout the year.
What to expect at the Forum in 2022?
The upcoming Forum will discuss key initiatives and projects in subsoil use regulation and mining industry in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Heads of leading companies, representatives of ministries and committees, investors and international experts will take part in discussions. Actions taken by the Government and the Industry in 2022 will reinforce Kazakhstan’s ability to achieve its long-term development priorities and secure its leading position in the growing global supply chain of metals and minerals.
Some of the topics proposed for the discussion at the Forum
Kazakhstan’s mining is facing multiple challenges and feels the need for transformation to ensure suitability. According to the official forecasts, the reserves of non-ferrous and precious metals in Kazakhstan are limited and can be depleted in 12 –15 years. To boost exploration the Government is planning to increase four times the funding of the National Project for the Development of the Exploration Industry. Major discoveries are expected in remote areas. This will require substantial state support to share the costs of infrastructure development.
The mining and metallurgical industry are one of the top three air pollutants. In 2021, Kazakhstan has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. Reducing carbon emissions by 19% by 2030 and being carbon neutral by 2060 will require a clear roadmap and coordination across all sectors. To fulfil carbon neutrality commitments, companies must significantly increase investment in the development of “green” technologies.
Achieving carbon neutrality in industrial production requires significant commitments from mining companies, financial and government institutions. To enhance ESG financing of industrial transformation a widespread discussion is taking place on many levels. Credit institutions and stock markets are developing new criteria. Companies are mastering responsible financing tools that allow them to raise funds for reducing climate change footprint and implement green projects e.g., waste management, energy, construction, transport, water supply, biodiversity, and environmental preservation.
About 8 thousand deposits are operating in Kazakhstan today. But many of the deposits of lead, copper, and rare metals will be depleted in 10-15 years. Mine closures are associated with operational and social challenges. Once the mine is closed, the operating mining company is responsible for land and water reclamation as well as resolving environmental issues such as biodiversity conservation and restoration of pre-existing ecosystems.
Industrial digitalisation is one of the top drivers of the economic development of Kazakhstan. According to official estimates, virtually all mining operations in the country have a 10-15 percent potential to improve efficiency and reduce the cost of operations. At the small and medium-sized enterprises, this potential is 50% or greater.
In addition to investment in production assets, participation of mining companies in the socio-economic programs is essential for creating favourable environment both at the regional and national levels. Recent unrests are the direct proof. The current policy of the government of Kazakhstan is aimed at creating a more equitable socio-economic model. Investment climate and the future socio-economic development of the country depend on determining the balance between the interests of the state, business, and society.
You could view the forum program from this link: Click Here
Mining Trade and Investment Show
An exhibition of innovative mining solutions and investment projects is traditionally organised alongside the Forum. Exhibiting companies are offered a wide range of opportunities for presenting their projects, technological solutions, and services to senior managers and directors of mining and geological enterprises operating in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Read more about the exhibition.
Over 30 Kazakh and International companies will be exhibiting at the Forum. To learn more about the companies and schedule 1-2-1 meetings, you could view virtual profiles of the companies.
MineESG Competition
On the sidelines of the Forum, we regularly organise industry competitions. This year for the first time we are holding the competition of ESG projects in the mining industry of Kazakhstan. Our objective is to popularise and help to scale up the unique experiences of mining and metallurgical companies in reducing environmental pollution, protecting the biosphere, preventing environmental risks, and supporting socio-economic development in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Applications must be submitted before 15 March 2022.
If you need further information you could visit The Forum’s website or contact the responsibles from kz@minexforum.com
