Zijin RG Gold to build $600 million gold extraction plant in Akmola region

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Zijin RG Gold will build a new gold extraction plant at the Raigorodok deposit in Akmola region with over $600 million in direct investment. The facility will process 10 million tonnes of ore per year and produce an additional 7 tonnes of gold annually. Construction is scheduled to begin with a groundbreaking ceremony, and the project is expected to be completed by 2028.
Key Facts
- The project involves over $600 million in direct investment and will create capacity to process 10 million tonnes of ore per year.
- The new plant will add 7 tonnes of gold per year, raising the company's total output from 6 to more than 12 tonnes of doré alloy annually.
- The facility will be built at the Raigorodok deposit in Burabay district, Akmola region, with a groundbreaking ceremony held on September 4, 2026.
- Akmola region currently accounts for 54% of Kazakhstan's total doré alloy production.
- The project includes construction of energy and water supply facilities, tailings storage, transport logistics, repair and warehouse complexes, and a 400-person shift camp.
Project Scope
The new gold extraction plant will be built at the Raigorodok deposit in Burabay district, Akmola region. The project involves over $600 million in direct investment and will create capacity to process 10 million tonnes of ore per year. This will increase the company's total mining and processing capacity to 16 million tonnes of ore annually. The facility will produce an additional 7 tonnes of gold per year, raising total output from 6 to more than 12 tonnes of doré alloy annually. The project also includes construction of energy and water supply facilities, tailings storage, transport logistics, repair and warehouse complexes, and a 400-person shift camp.
Regional Impact
Akim of Akmola region Marat Akhmetzhanov called the investor's arrival a large-scale event for the region. He said the project marks a transition to a new, high-tech stage of industry development with a high level of environmental responsibility. The project is expected to create a multiplier effect for investors and related industries, stimulating service infrastructure and small business development. Co-CEO of Zijin RG Gold Marat Shaimardanov said the project is an investment in regional development, creating opportunities for specialists, SMEs, and economic strengthening. Akmola region currently provides 54% of Kazakhstan's total doré alloy production.
Workforce and Social Programs
The company will continue to develop social partnership, with most of the workforce consisting of local residents. Specific agreements have been reached with the investor to finance new social projects in the region. Zijin Mining has already launched a scholarship program and sends local youth to study in China, after which they return to work at the mine and plant. The project places special emphasis on international industrial safety and environmental responsibility standards.