SNAPSHOT OF THE METALS AND MINING SECTOR

Overview

     Uzbekistan is one of the most resource-rich countries in Central Asia, possessing abundant reserves of strategic minerals that are essential to global industrial supply chains. The mining and metallurgical industries play a vital role in the country's economic development, supported by extensive geological resources, ongoing sector reforms, and growing foreign investment. According to the results of 2025, Uzbekistan continued to strengthen its position as a leading producer of critical minerals and metals in the region.

Mineral Resources and Production

     Uzbekistan possesses significant reserves of gold, copper, uranium, silver, tungsten, molybdenum, lithium, rare earth elements, potassium salts, and other strategic minerals. The country ranks among the world's leading holders of mineral reserves, including 5th in gold, 8th in copper, 12th in uranium, and 4th in potassium salt reserves. According to the results of 2025, total mining sector output reached approximately USD 17.6 billion, while metallurgical industry output exceeded USD 14.7 billion during the first ten months of the year. Gold production totaled around 130 tons, reinforcing Uzbekistan's position among the world's largest gold-producing countries. Coal production also reached approximately 3.9 million tons, supporting growing industrial and energy demand.

Industry Development and Modernization

     Mining and quarrying accounted for approximately 11.4% of Uzbekistan's total industrial production in 2025, highlighting the sector's strategic contribution to economic growth and exports. The government continues implementing comprehensive reforms to modernize the mining industry, improve operational efficiency, and expand geological exploration activities. New regulatory measures include the adoption of international standards for geological block classification and the expansion of transparent auction-based licensing mechanisms for exploration and mining rights.

Investment Environment

     Uzbekistan has introduced a range of reforms aimed at improving investor access and reducing administrative barriers. The implementation of the "first come, first served" principle for underexplored areas without confirmed reserves, together with the introduction of digital one-stop-shop platforms for subsoil use permits, has significantly simplified investment procedures. These measures provide greater transparency and predictability for domestic and international investors.

Investment Incentives

     Foreign investors benefit from a comprehensive package of investment incentives designed to encourage geological exploration and mining development. These include land tax exemptions for geological exploration sites, customs exemptions for imported exploration and mining equipment not produced domestically, simplified licensing procedures, government support for geological prospecting and mineral resource development, and expanded opportunities for public-private partnerships (PPPs) and foreign investment projects. Supported by abundant natural resources, continued regulatory reforms, and increasing global demand for critical minerals, Uzbekistan offers strong long-term opportunities for investment across the mining and metallurgical value chain.