Kazakhstan to open rare earth metals lab to boost global role
Astana facility backed by international partners aims to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position in supply chains for critical raw materials
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Kazakhstan will establish an internationally certified laboratory for rare earth metals as part of its drive to expand beyond raw exports and integrate into global technology supply chains. The facility, set to open by mid-2026, is expected to provide advanced geo-analytical services and storage for mineral samples.
According to the Times of Central Asia, Industry Minister Yersayin Nagaspayev said agreements have been signed with two leading global laboratory firms — RCI Inspection and PARAGON — to accredit the new center. Preparatory design and feasibility studies are already underway, with the site to operate under the National Geological Service.
The move follows President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s September 8 address to Parliament, where he highlighted rare earth elements (REEs) as strategic to Kazakhstan’s long-term development. He directed the government to launch at least three high-tech production facilities using rare earths within the next three years.
Rare earth metals, a group of 17 elements used in electronics, batteries, renewable energy, and defense industries, have become central to global competition for critical minerals. Despite holding substantial reserves, Kazakhstan has historically exported these resources in raw form — a pattern Tokayev has warned against.
Officials say the new laboratory will underpin four domestic priorities: producing battery materials, recycling permanent magnets, developing heat-resistant alloys for turbine engines, and manufacturing semiconductor inputs.
Projects already in motion include a 15-ton-per-year gallium plant, high-purity manganese sulfate for batteries, and nickel-based superalloys. Pilot magnet recycling, in partnership with European firms, is slated to begin next year.
Kazakhstan is also strengthening partnerships with the European Union, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and China to expand downstream production. Recent geological surveys have confirmed larger reserves of rare earths than previously estimated, further positioning the country as a key player in global mineral markets.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
