Kazakhstan holds a leading position in global uranium production, accounting for about 40% of this resource. Uranium, used in nuclear power plants, plays a key role in ensuring nuclear energy, making it strategically important for countries like France, China, and the USA, which depend on imports of this fuel for electricity generation.

Kazakhstan's economic position is bolstered by its status as the most developed country in Central Asia, where it ranks 50-55 in the International Monetary Fund's GDP rankings. In the context of energy independence, Kazakhstan plans to increase the share of nuclear energy to 5% by 2035, which is part of a strategy supported by 70% of votes in the 2024 referendum.

Despite significant uranium reserves, Kazakhstan continues to import 20% of its energy resources, especially during peak hours and in the western regions, where electricity is supplied from Russia. The country has long sought complete energy independence, but only now is the construction of new power plants beginning.

The utilization of uranium reserves could significantly reduce dependence on external supplies, but this requires a comprehensive approach. Last year, Kazakhstan signed a long-awaited agreement with the French company Orano Mining, covering the Zöevch-Ovoo and Dulaaan-Uul deposits, which should improve the economic situation in the country.
The project is expected to create over 1,600 jobs and generate about 1 billion dollars in tax revenues in the long term. The country's political course has already been confirmed in the direction of developing nuclear energy, as reflected in the memorandum of understanding signed during the state visit of the President of Mongolia to Kazakhstan.
The Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources of Kazakhstan announced plans for joint training of specialists and studying the investment climate, using Kazakhstan's experience in nuclear energy and safety standards.

Published Date:2026-04-28