Azernews.Az

By Nazrin Gadimova

Gold production in Tajikistan increased significantly in the first half of 2013, Tajik Deputy Minister of Energy and Industry Pulod Muhiddinov said at a press conference in Dushanbe on July 24.

According to Muhiddinov, during this period gold production made up 993,6 kilograms, or 134,6 kilograms more than in the same period of 2012 when the figure was 859 kilograms.

"The increase in production of the precious metal was achieved by expanding the gold mining in Zarafshan, Aprelevka, Odina and other gold mines," Muhiddinov said.

He emphasized that this year's gold mining is planned to bring to 3 tonnes.

"Since the beginning of the year silver mining amounted to more than 855.5 kilograms, which is by 39.6 kilograms more than in the same period of 2012. This year silver production is planned to bring to 2 tonnes," Muhiddinov said.

Gold mining in Tajikistan is significant to the world mineral market. According to estimates from the Tajik Academy of Sciences, gold deposits are estimated at 429.3 tonnes. Tajikistan's largest gold mining operation is located in Sughd Province, with most gold being mined southeast of Gharm, in the Pamir Mountains, in the Yakhsu Valley, Chkalovsk, and Jilau.