The world's largest landlocked country, Kazakhstan, has coal reserves sufficient for over 300 years of mining.
According to Kazinform News Agency, on April 7, Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhaynov stated at a government meeting that Kazakhstan aims to produce 128.9 million tons of coal by 2026. Meanwhile, with the advancement of new projects and increased geological exploration efforts, the coal sector is expected to attract investments totaling 553.5 billion tenge this year.
The Ministry of Energy emphasized that the coal industry remains a crucial pillar in ensuring Kazakhstan’s energy security. Kazakhstan ranks among the top ten countries globally in terms of coal reserves. Based on current extraction levels, the nation's coal reserves are estimated to last for more than 300 years.
Data shows that Kazakhstan’s total coal reserves amount to approximately 33.6 billion tons. Major coalfields include the Karaganda Basin, Torgai Basin, Shubarkol, and Zharin coal mines in central Kazakhstan; and important mining areas such as the Ekibastuz Basin, Makatobe Basin, and Karazhira coal mine in northeastern Kazakhstan.
The minister noted that in recent years, Kazakhstan’s coal industry has maintained steady growth, consistently securing domestic supply while also expanding export volumes. Currently, the majority of domestically produced coal is still prioritized for the domestic market, primarily used for power generation, public utilities, and industrial applications.
According to official data, Kazakhstan’s coal production reached about 115.9 million tons in 2025—a 7% increase compared to 2024. Of this, 85.9 million tons were consumed domestically for power and public utilities, while coal exports reached 30 million tons.
Currently, Kazakhstan’s main coal export markets include Russia, Poland, Uzbekistan, Turkey, India, Malaysia, and other countries and regions.
In terms of investment, the Kazakhstani government continues to promote attracting new capital into the coal sector. The Ministry of Energy reported that there are currently 40 underground resource operators across the country’s solid mineral resources sector, operating under 41 coal-related contracts.
According to contract implementation plans, total investment in the coal industry reached 305 billion tenge in 2025, and is expected to rise further to 553.5 billion tenge by 2026.
The Ministry of Energy also pointed out that the coal industry currently employs around 32,000 people. With ongoing industry development, employment opportunities are expected to grow further in the future.
Additionally, the Kazakhstani government is intensifying geological exploration activities in the coal sector. The Ministry stated it plans to hold an auction by the end of this year to award mining rights for approximately 10 underground resource blocks, further promoting industry development and resource utilization.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861836042630344/
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