AIFC-Registered Company to Develop a Copper Deposit in Western Kazakhstan 

A strategic partnership has been formed between the Akimat of Aktobe Region, a large Chinese mining company, and SM Minerals, a company registered at the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). The agreement was reached during a working visit to the People’s Republic of China by regional Akim Askhat Shakharov, with the meeting taking place in Beijing. The aim of the trip was to hold a series of meetings with Chinese investors interested in implementing industrial projects in western Kazakhstan.  

The Aktobe region has traditionally been one of Kazakhstan’s industrial hubs, encompassing the extraction and processing of mineral resources. The region also offers extensive opportunities for joint projects with foreign investors in the fields of industrial manufacturing, agriculture, processing, and logistics. 

Acting in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the PRC, the Astana International Financial Centre initiated and facilitated the investment dialogue. The visit resulted in agreements on several key projects across Aktobe Region.  

Among the outcomes was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the regional Akimat, a large Chinese mining company, and SM Minerals. This agreement outlines a shared commitment to develop copper deposit in Aktobe Region.  

Should this project be implemented in the future with participation from both a Chinese investor and a Kazakhstani company, it will significantly contribute to enhancing the industrial potential of Aktobe Region, attracting investment, creating new jobs, and increasing the volume of industrial output. 

Background Information:    

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction offering a favourable legal and regulatory environment, as well as developed infrastructure for starting and conducting business, attracting investment, creating jobs, and fostering economic development in Kazakhstan. www.aifc.kz