Mirziyoyev Reviews Major Copper Industry Projects in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed the implementation of major investment projects in the copper industry and the sector’s long-term development plans.

During the presentation, it was noted that copper is gaining strategic importance for industry, energy, electrical engineering, the digital economy and the implementation of green development projects. In this regard, particular attention is being paid to expanding geological exploration, ensuring the efficient development of mineral resources and increasing value-added processing of raw materials.

One of the key projects in the sector is the development of the Yoshlik-1 deposit by Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Combine (Almalyk MMC). In March this year, the first phase of Copper Concentrator Plant No. 3 was commissioned. The project is valued at US$2.7 billion.

The facility, located on a 196-hectare site, will be capable of processing up to 60 million tonnes of ore annually and producing around 900,000 tonnes of copper concentrate per year once it reaches full capacity.

The president was briefed on ongoing efforts to launch the plant’s subsequent phases, ensure the stability of technological processes and achieve projected production targets.

A phased schedule has been developed to bring ball mills in the grinding section and flotation lines to full operating capacity. By the end of this year, the plant is expected to increase ore processing volumes, fully commission all major technological chains and ensure stable production operations.

Following the full launch of Copper Concentrator Plant No. 3, daily copper concentrate output at Almalyk MMC is expected to increase from the current 2,400 tonnes to 5,000 tonnes. The introduction of modern technologies is expected to reduce energy consumption and production costs while improving labour productivity.

Particular attention was also given to preparations for Copper Concentrator Plant No. 4. Basic engineering documentation is currently being developed, while earthworks and drilling activities are underway at the construction site.

The design of the new facility incorporates experience gained during the construction and commissioning of the third plant. Special emphasis is being placed on optimising technological solutions, improving energy efficiency and ensuring rational water use.

Measures have also been identified to improve gravity concentration, flotation, concentrate drying and tailings thickening processes with the involvement of international engineering companies. At the same time, a feasibility study is being prepared to attract financing from foreign financial institutions.

Following the presentation, relevant agencies were instructed to ensure the allocation of the land required for the construction of the fourth copper concentrator plant, continue preparatory work at the site, complete the development of the basic engineering documentation within the established timeframe and refine the phased implementation schedule for the project.