In the Karaganda region, the practical implementation of the largest tungsten project “Northern Katpar” was officially launched. The work will mark the beginning of the creation of a new production chain in Kazakhstan - from the extraction of raw materials to the production of high-tech products.
Preparations are underway at the field for the second month: sites, access roads, and field infrastructure are being developed, and geodetic work is being carried out.
At the same time, a final feasibility study for the project is being developed, which is planned to be completed by the end of 2027.
"Today we are launching a project that is important for the Karaganda region and the entire country—the development of the world's largest tungsten deposits, Northern Katpar and Upper Kairakty. In addition to attracting foreign investment, the project will provide a significant economic boost to the Shetsky district. Once the facility is operational, 1,200 new jobs will be created," said Shyngys Suyunbayev, Deputy Akim of the Karaganda region.
Dominic Heaton, CEO of Cove Kaz Capital Group, emphasized the scale of the investor's goals.
"We are commencing the industrial implementation of the North Katpar project. Our goal is not simply to develop a deposit, but to create a modern, internationally competitive tungsten mining and processing industry in Kazakhstan. This means investment in processing and the creation of added value within the country, new jobs, the development of professional competencies, and the participation of Kazakhstani companies in the project's supply chain," noted Dominic Heaton.
According to Daniyar Idrisov, Chief Investment and Strategy Officer at Tau-Ken Samruk Oil and Gas Company JSC, the partners intend to create a full production cycle—from ore mining to metallurgical processing and the production of high-value-added tungsten products. The project is expected to become an example of international partnership, attracting investment, technology, and new opportunities for industrial development to Kazakhstan.
Total investment in developing the two deposits and creating the necessary mining and processing infrastructure is estimated at approximately $1.1 billion.
According to current estimates, the two deposits will be capable of producing approximately 12,000 tons of tungsten products per year—approximately 15% of the current global tungsten production volume.
The project includes not only ore mining and enrichment, but also its advanced processing in Kazakhstan. Thus, the country plans to establish a new production chain in the critical minerals sector.
According to the current schedule, main construction could begin in 2028, with commissioning scheduled for 2029.