Uranium production to reach 22 830 tons in 2014

Uranium production in Kazakhstan may reach 22 830 tons in 2014, a Tengrinews.kz journalist reports, citing Sergei Poltoratsky, KazAtomProm National Nuclear Company Managing Director for Strategic Development, at a recent international conference on the uranium industry issues.

According to the Company, the 2013 uranium production figure stood at 22 500 tons. With the projected figure at 22 830, Kazakhstan will retain its leading place among uranium producers. Sergei Poltoratsky reminded that Kazakhstan’s uranium reserves are estimated at 1.7 million tons, with the reserves lasting for another 80-90 years.

The Company’s rep announced that the Company intends not only to produce uranium, but also handle with enrichment and production of nuclear fuel for nuclear power plants. He reported that Kazakhstan has bought 25% plus one share in the Ural Fuel and Petrochemical Refinery, gaining an access to uranium enrichment, and is ready to process up to 6000 tons of uranium a year, which is 1/6 of the global market.

Back in 2013 Kazakhstan boosted its uranium production by 6%.