Kazakhmys and Air Liquide of France to jointly produce industrial gases

Kazakhmys, a UK-registered copper mining company whose main assets are located in Kazakhstan, and Air Liquide of France are thinking of launching an investment project to produce industrial gases. Respective MoU was signed under the aegis of the Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Industry and New Technology April 19, KazTag Newswire reports. “The project is at its early stage … however, we have a clear intent to work together”, Kazakhmys Smelting Director Marat Aubakirov said following the signing of the MoU. Air Liquide is a major French company supplying industrial gases and services to various industries including medical, chemical and electronic manufacturers. Founded in 1902, it is first in the world market in its field, now operating in over 80 countries. “Kazakhmys as a copper producer (…) seeks to optimize production costs. The power spent to produce oxygen is a major cost component. [The French company] possesses high-end technology enabling to cut down costs”, Mr. Aubakirov said. “Late May we may finalize the agreement (…) we have to define the volume of oxygen needed to support the Company’s operations. Then pre-feasibility study stage will follow with estimates provided by Air Liquide (…) There are a number of cooperation options. The French side will either supply new equipment or modernize the already available equipment. Or there can be some other options”. Established in 1930 and focused on copper production, Kazakhmys PLC is among the world's leading natural resources groups. The Company is based primarily in Kazakhstan, Central Asia, listed in London and Hong Kong, and is part of the FTSE 100 Index.