Kazakhstan achieves first place for uranium extraction

Kazakhstan, Astana, Jan. 5 / Trend K. Konyrova /

Kazakhstan has achieved the first place on uranium extraction in the world, JSC Kazatomprom said.

"As of December 21, 2009 extraction of natural uranium in  Mining Company of JSC Kazatomprom hit 13,500 tons," the national company said.

According to the consulting agency Ux Consalting, Canada is expected to extract 9,934 tons, Australia - 8,022 tons of natural uranium in 2009.

There are 21 miners in Kazakhstan. Natural uranium is extracted by environmentally safe and cost-effective manner through underground borehole leaching.

"Production growth hit 63 percent compared to 2008. This became possible by putting into operation new mines, as well as increase of production capacity of existing enterprises", Kazatomprom reported.

"From 2016 deficit of natural uranium is forecasted in the world with the development of atomic energy and reduction of supplies due to secondary sources, in. Uranium production is planned to be increased up to 18,000 tons in Kazakhstan in 2010 to cover the expected deficit. The republic will take a leading position in the world's uranium mining in the period of high demand on it, " JSC Kazatomprom vice-president Nurlan Ryspanov said. His words are cited in the press release.

"In 2010, JSC Kazatomprom will launch new high-tech projects. In particular, it will begin to create high-tech industries on the basis of rare and rare earth metals, the development of devices of alternative energy in Kazakhstan, " the national company said.

The Atomic Company KAZATOMPROM is the national operator of the Kazakh Republic for import and export of uranium, rare metals, nuclear fuel for power plants, special equipment and dual-purpose materials.

Its principal activities are: exploration, production of uranium, nuclear fuel cycle products, reactor construction, atomic power stations, non-ferrous metallurgy and production of construction materials, power engineering, science, social welfare and staff training.

At present, over 25,000 workers are employed by the Company. Kazatomprom is one of the world's leading uranium mining companies.

Mining Company Ltd. is a complete subsidiary of JSC Kazatomprom. Its main task is the extraction and production of natural uranium concentrate. It develops deposits, which are wholly owned by JSC Kazatomprom. It also operates with its shares in joint ventures in South Kazakhstan, Kyzylorda and Akmola regions of Kazakhstan.