Uzbekistan is set to launch a series of projects for the extraction and processing of rare metals, with a total investment of 2.6 billion U.S. dollars, the presidential press service announced on Friday. This strategic initiative underscores the country’s commitment to leveraging its mineral wealth to drive industrial growth and enhance its role in the global supply chain for critical materials.
The announcement came following a key meeting on March 7, where President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a detailed presentation on expanding the raw material base for critical minerals and producing high value-added products, according to the press service. The statement elaborated: “In the next three years, 76 projects covering 28 rare minerals are planned to be implemented, with a total cost of 2.6 billion U.S. dollars. Additional funding will be allocated for geological exploration and scientific research to expand the raw material base.” This investment signals a robust push to unlock the potential of Uzbekistan’s untapped mineral resources.
These projects will focus on extracting valuable rare metals directly from ores using state-of-the-art technologies, improving mineral purity, and developing high value-added products for both domestic and international markets. The initiative targets 28 specific rare minerals, though the exact types were not detailed in the statement. Experts speculate that these could include rare earth elements, lithium, and other metals critical to industries like electronics, renewable energy, and aerospace. By integrating modern extraction and processing methods, Uzbekistan aims to produce refined materials that meet stringent global standards.
The presidential press service highlighted that the 2.6 billion USD investment will cover a comprehensive scope, including the establishment of new mining operations, the upgrade of existing facilities, and the development of downstream processing capabilities. Beyond the initial funding, the government plans to bolster geological surveys and research efforts to identify additional deposits and assess their economic feasibility. This dual approach—combining immediate project implementation with long-term resource exploration—positions Uzbekistan to sustainably expand its mineral sector.
Economically, the initiative aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader goal of diversifying its economy, which has traditionally depended heavily on cotton, natural gas, and gold exports. The rare metals projects are expected to create thousands of jobs, from mining and processing to research and logistics, while attracting foreign investment and technological expertise. The government views this as an opportunity to reduce reliance on volatile commodity markets and establish a foothold in the high-tech materials sector, which is seeing surging demand worldwide due to the rise of green technologies and digital innovation.
Environmental considerations are also part of the planning process. The press service noted that the projects will incorporate modern technologies to minimize ecological harm, though specific measures were not outlined. Uzbekistan may seek partnerships with international firms to adopt sustainable mining practices, ensuring that economic gains do not come at the expense of the country’s natural landscapes.
The timing of this announcement is significant, as global demand for rare metals continues to climb. Critical minerals are essential for manufacturing electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines, and advanced electronics, yet supply chains remain concentrated in a few countries. Uzbekistan’s entry into this market could help diversify global sources, particularly in Central Asia, a region increasingly recognized for its mineral potential. If successful, these projects could elevate Uzbekistan’s status as a key supplier, enhancing its geopolitical and economic influence.
Analysts see this as a transformative step for Uzbekistan. With 76 projects slated for completion within three years, the initiative represents one of the most ambitious industrial undertakings in the country’s recent history. By marrying resource development with technological innovation, Uzbekistan aims to not only extract raw materials but also build a value-added industry that positions it as a competitive player on the world stage.
