Tokayev names key strategic resource of the new industrial era

Tengrinews.kz – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said critical minerals are emerging as the key strategic resource of the new industrial era, speaking at the 38th plenary session of the Foreign Investors' Council.

The President noted that Kazakhstan has introduced the Smart Cargo digital platform, which operates on the principle of seamless integration and supports the digitalization of key transport corridors.

Tokayev also said significant progress has been made in the digital transformation of Kazakhstan's oil and gas sector, with particular emphasis on developing digital twins of hydrocarbon production and processing facilities.

"At the same time, a comprehensive oil and petroleum products traceability system is being introduced, covering the entire production and supply chain – from extraction to final delivery. AI-powered solutions are being used to predict equipment failures, improve the reliability of production processes, and optimize industrial operations. Meanwhile, the Astana International Financial Centre serves as a reliable platform for testing innovative artificial intelligence solutions. Through its FinTech Lab regulatory sandbox, the AIFC combines the advantages of English common law with one of the world's leading data protection systems. Ultimately, the AIFC provides transparent business rules, strong legal safeguards, and the highest standards of data security," Tokayev said.

Turning to investment priorities, the President highlighted the development of a transparent, technology-driven ecosystem for critical materials.

He said critical minerals are becoming the key strategic resource of the new industrial era.

"In response to global changes, Kazakhstan continues to improve its legal framework and regulatory mechanisms, creating the most favorable conditions for cooperation with leading international companies. We have launched the Unified Subsoil Use Platform, which automates 22 public services related to licensing and compliance monitoring for subsoil users. More than 4.7 million archived geological documents and materials, previously available only in paper and magnetic formats, have already been digitized and transferred to a unified national digital repository. In addition, we have begun using artificial intelligence to accelerate the conversion of historical geological data into modern machine-readable formats," the President said.

Tokayev also noted that, as part of plans to establish a Regional Research Center for Rare Earth Metals in Astana, Kazakhstan is creating a single hub that will provide international investors with high-precision geological data.

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