Uzbekistan expands uranium projects to boost exports and future nuclear cooperation

Uzbekistan is accelerating plans to expand uranium production and deepen international nuclear cooperation, positioning the sector as a pillar of long-term industrial growth and resource security.

The push comes as authorities fast-track the development of new deposits while seeking to strengthen the country’s role in global nuclear fuel markets.

The government recently outlined plans to begin development of four uranium deposits - Arnasay in Jizzakh region, Western Kizilkok and Southern Jongeldi in Navoi region and Eastern Agron in Samarkand region - alongside efforts to boost processing capacity and improve supporting infrastructure.

Uzbekistan ranks among the world’s leading uranium producers, placing fifth globally in production and tenth in reserves. Annual output is estimated at around 3,500 tonnes as of 2025, while identified national reserves total roughly 139,000 tonnes.

Uranium produced by the Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Company (NMMC) - the country’s sole uranium producer - is supplied to major international nuclear fuel processors and trading partners, including companies in Japan, the United States, China, South Korea, India and Europe. Key corporate partners have included Itochu and Marubeni (Japan), Nukem (U.S.) and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, reflecting Uzbekistan’s diversified export strategy.

Global demand for natural uranium remains strong, with major consumers such as the United States, France, Russia, China and South Korea driving international trade flows. Analysts say Uzbekistan’s expanding production capacity could strengthen its role as a reliable supplier amid rising interest in alternative nuclear fuel sources.

Long-term industrial development

Domestically, the government is investing in infrastructure such as roads, power lines and chemical supply chains required for uranium processing. A $150 million project at the Arnasay deposit is expected to begin production in July, supported by the construction of 68 kilometres of roads and 110 kilometres of new electricity lines.

Authorities emphasise that uranium expansion is not only about raw exports, but also about building technological capacity, improving efficiency and supporting downstream industries such as chemical processing and advanced materials.

Most uranium in Uzbekistan is extracted using in-situ leaching - a method first introduced in the country in the late 1960s and considered more environmentally efficient than traditional mining techniques. Recent technological upgrades, including automated management systems and improved chemical processes, have helped reduce production costs and optimise output.

The Central Kyzylkum region holds the largest confirmed reserves, with industry experts saying existing resource bases could sustain production for decades. Modernisation plans through 2030 include upgrading processing facilities, expanding mining complexes and developing new sandstone-type deposits.

Uzbekistan’s uranium sector is closely linked to its broader energy strategy, including plans for future nuclear power projects and cooperation with international partners. Analysts say expanding production could strengthen the country’s position in global supply chains at a time when nuclear energy is regaining importance in energy security discussions.

Officials also stress the need to boost sulphuric acid production - a key component in uranium processing - to support increased mining volumes and ensure stable industrial growth.

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