Kazatomprom

National Atomic Company Kazatomprom Joint Stock Company (Kazatomprom) is the world’s largest producer and seller of natural uranium, providing over 40% of global primary uranium supply in 2019 from its operations in Kazakhstan. Kazatomprom's uranium is used for the generation of nuclear power around the world.

Kazatomprom is Kazakhstan’s national operator for the export and import of uranium and its compounds, nuclear power plant fuel, special equipment and technologies. The company's status as a National Company provides certain advantages, including, among other things, obtaining subsoil use agreements (in-situ recovery mine licences) through direct negotiation with the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

All of the company's mines and subsidiary processing operations are located in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The uranium is virtually all ultimately destined for export as Kazakhstan hasn't had a nuclear power plant since the shutdown of the Soviet built BN-350 reactor in Aktau in 1992. There is some debate regarding future use of nuclear power in Kazakhstan, however.

Kazatomprom, the national operator for the import and export of uranium, rare metals, and nuclear fuel in Kazakhstan, has a rich history spanning several decades. The company was established in 1997 under a decree by Nursultan Nazarbayev, the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Initially, Kazatomprom aimed to become the world's largest uranium producer by 2010 and achieved this target ahead of schedule in 2009.

In 2018, Kazatomprom underwent privatization and became a public company with an initial public offering (IPO). The IPO allowed Kazatomprom to be listed on the Astana International Exchange (AIX) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE), marking an important milestone in its development. Today, Samruk-Kazyna JSC remains the majority shareholder with 75% of the outstanding share capital, while the remaining 25% is held by minority shareholders from around the world.

As the world's largest single uranium producer, Kazatomprom has adapted its strategy to address changes in the global uranium market. Recognizing the need to balance supply and demand, the company shifted its focus from production volume to value. It has embraced an in-situ recovery (ISR) uranium production strategy, which is the most profitable aspect of the nuclear fuel cycle.

In addition to uranium mining, Kazatomprom has also expanded its presence in the front-end nuclear fuel cycle. This includes partnerships, agreements, and projects related to uranium conversion, enrichment, and the production of fuel assemblies for nuclear power plants. The company has gained access to refining and conversion technology through its collaborations with industry leaders.

Furthermore, Kazatomprom has played a significant role in promoting nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. The company's Ulba Metallurgical Plant houses the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) low-enriched uranium (LEU) Nuclear fuel bank. This facility provides IAEA member countries with access to LEU reserves in case commercial uranium acquisition becomes challenging.

The mission of Kazatomprom is to be a global leader in the safe, sustainable, and responsible production of nuclear energy and associated minerals. They aim to contribute to the development of the nuclear power industry while meeting the growing global demand for clean and reliable energy. Kazatomprom is committed to maximizing the value of Kazakhstan's mineral resources, particularly uranium, and utilizing advanced technologies to ensure efficient and environmentally-friendly mining and processing operations.

With a focus on operational excellence, Kazatomprom aims to maintain high safety standards and prioritize the well-being of its employees and surrounding communities. They strive to be a trusted partner for their customers, delivering high-quality products and services that meet their specific needs. Through research, development, and technological innovation, Kazatomprom continuously seeks to improve its processes and enhance the sustainability of its operations.

The vision of Kazatomprom is to be a leading global player in the nuclear energy industry, recognized for its excellence, innovation, and sustainability. They aspire to be at the forefront of technological advancements and market trends, driving the growth and development of the nuclear sector. Kazatomprom envisions a future where nuclear energy plays a vital role in meeting the world's energy needs, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet.

At the core of their vision is a commitment to responsible and ethical business practices. Kazatomprom aims to be a model of corporate citizenship, prioritizing safety, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility in all aspects of their operations. They seek to foster strong partnerships and collaboration with stakeholders, including customers, employees, local communities, and government entities, to create shared value and ensure the long-term success of the nuclear industry.

Geological Exploration: Kazatomprom conducts geological exploration activities through its subsidiary, JSC "Volkovgeology". This includes providing geological support and conducting technological drilling for mining and preparatory work on uranium mining sites.

Mineral Assets: Kazakhstan is home to the largest uranium reserves in the world, and Kazatomprom plays a significant role in their exploration and development. The company operates 13 active uranium deposits, with 24 areas grouped into 13 uranium-mining subsidiaries. They utilize in-situ recovery (ISR) mining method, which involves extracting uranium through a solution injected into the ore body.

Uranium Mining and Processing: Kazatomprom's core business is the mining of natural uranium. They employ the ISR mining method, which is cost-effective, has a smaller environmental footprint, and ensures better health and safety performance. The production solution is pumped into the uranium ore body, dissolving natural uranium compounds, and then brought back to the surface for processing to extract uranium.

Uranium Processing: Kazatomprom's subsidiary, Ulba Metallurgical Plant JSC, offers services for the final processing, reconversion, and production of fuel pellets for light water nuclear reactors. They have expertise in producing ceramic-grade uranium dioxide powders and collaborate with partners for the production of finished nuclear fuel assemblies.

Rare Metal Production: The Ulba Metallurgical Plant JSC is involved in the production of rare metals such as Tantalum, Niobium, and Beryllium. They are among the world's largest producers of these metals and have fully integrated production cycles for beryllium and a tantalum plant.

Scientific Research and Development Activity: Kazatomprom is actively engaged in research, design, and development activities through its Research and Design Institute. They centralize the research and production subdivisions of affiliated companies, including the Central Research and Development Laboratory and the Central Experimental and Methodological Expedition.