Russian firm starts mining operations in Kazakhstan
Russian EuroChem, one of the world's largest fertiliser companies, has started drilling and blasting operations at the Kok-Djon phosphate deposit in Kazakhstan.
The company reported that the large scale development of the phosphate rock deposit is being carried out by Kazakhstan-based EuroChem-Fertilisers LLP.
The initial production capacity will amount to approximately 640,000 tons of phosphate ore per year with the first production expected to come on stream in 2014.
The initial phase of the project stipulates investments worth $120 million.
The Kok-Djon deposit located in Kazakhstan's Jambyl Region, is a key part of EuroChem's upstream raw material strategy. The company is currently 75 per cent self-sufficient in phosphate rock which is the main raw material used in the production of phosphate-based fertilisers and aims to bridge this gap by further increasing its resource base.
EuroChem's commitment to the region is also expected to play centre stage in addressing socio-economic issues in the Zhambyl District. This is particularly the case in the towns of Karatau and Zhanatas where EuroChem plans to promote the development of regional infrastructure by assisting with the upgrade and construction of social facilities.
Head of Zhambyl region Kanat Bozumbayev said that EuroChem will contribute to the further development of the region.
EuroChem is deeply committed to the Zhambyl region and has already contributed over $10 million to help solve some of the most pressing social issues, General Director of EuroChem Fertilisers LLP Erakulan Muryagaliev said in turn.