Kazakhstan-China nuclear ties deepen amid energy shift
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Kazakhstan and China are expanding cooperation in nuclear energy, with Beijing investing in uranium mining and reactor projects in Kazakhstan. The partnership reflects Astana's strategy to diversify its energy exports beyond oil and gas. Even as global scrutiny of nuclear proliferation risks grows, both countries frame the collaboration as a clean energy initiative.
Investment and Projects
China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has signed agreements to develop new uranium mines in southern Kazakhstan and to build a small modular reactor (SMR) in the Almaty region, according to Eurasianet. The SMR, with a capacity of 300 MW, is expected to be operational by 2032. Kazakhstan, the world's largest uranium producer, supplied 40% of China's uranium imports in 2025.
Strategic Context
The deepening ties come as Kazakhstan seeks to reduce its economic dependence on Russia and China aims to secure energy resources for its growing nuclear fleet. Astana has also signed a memorandum with South Korea's KHNP for feasibility studies on a second nuclear power plant. Analysts note that Kazakhstan's uranium reserves, estimated at 15% of global total, make it a key partner for Beijing's nuclear expansion.
What's Next
Kazakhstan's parliament is expected to ratify the CNNC agreements by September 2026. It remains unclear whether the SMR project will face local opposition over environmental and safety concerns.
2 sources
Kazakhstan-China nuclear ties deepen amid energy shift
