Uzbek President Reviews Progress of Major Copper Industry Projects
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been briefed on the implementation of major investment projects and future development plans in Uzbekistan’s copper industry, a sector increasingly regarded as a strategic pillar for industrial growth, energy transition, digital technologies and green development.
During the presentation, officials outlined ongoing efforts to expand geological exploration, improve the efficient use of existing reserves, deepen raw material processing and increase the production of high-value-added copper products.
Particular attention was given to the progress of Copper Concentrator Plant No. 3 at the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex. The first stage of the facility was commissioned in March this year as part of the development program for the Yoshlik-1 deposit. The project, implemented on an area of 196 hectares, involved an investment of $2.7 billion.
Once fully operational, the plant will be capable of processing up to 60 million tons of ore annually and producing approximately 900,000 tons of copper concentrate. Officials reported on measures being taken to ensure the timely commissioning of subsequent stages, maintain stable technological processes and achieve planned production targets.
A detailed schedule has been established for the phased commissioning of ball mills in the grinding workshop and flotation lines. Authorities aim to increase ore processing volumes at the plant by the end of the year, complete the launch of all major technological chains and ensure stable production operations.
Following the plant’s full commissioning, daily copper concentrate output at the complex is expected to rise from 2,400 tons to 5,000 tons. The adoption of modern technologies is also projected to reduce energy consumption and production costs while enhancing labor productivity.
The presentation further reviewed progress on the planned Copper Concentrator Plant No. 4 project. Preparations for the facility are advancing, with basic engineering documentation currently being developed and earthworks and drilling operations underway at the construction site.
Drawing on the experience gained from Plant No. 3, the new project will place special emphasis on optimizing technological solutions and ensuring the efficient use of energy and water resources.
Officials also outlined measures to modernize technological processes related to gravity concentration, flotation, concentrate drying and tailings thickening in cooperation with international engineering companies. Work is additionally underway on a feasibility study aimed at securing financing from foreign financial institutions.
President Mirziyoyev instructed responsible authorities to allocate the required land plots for Copper Concentrator Plant No. 4, continue preparatory construction activities, complete engineering documentation within established deadlines and finalize a detailed roadmap for the project’s phased commissioning.
