Orano Mining has partnered with Uzbekistan’s Navoiuran and Japan’s ITOCHU to extract uranium from the Jongeldy deposit, marking a pivotal development for Uzbekistan’s uranium industry. The agreement focuses on advancing projects amidst Orano’s strategic shift following the loss of Niger’s uranium assets, aiming to boost production and attract investments while enhancing Uzbekistan’s global position.
France’s Orano Mining, together with Uzbekistan’s Navoiuran and Japan’s ITOCHU, has signed a trilateral agreement to initiate uranium extraction at the Jongeldy deposit. This agreement, signed on March 10, 2025, in Paris, aims not only to develop the deposit but also to expedite geological exploration in other collaborative projects, significantly benefiting Uzbekistan’s uranium industry.
Uzbekistan is positioned among the top five global uranium producers. Collaborations with prestigious international companies like Orano Mining and ITOCHU can notably enhance the country’s stature in this critical sector, opening up pathways for expanded operations, increased production, and foreign investments.
The initial development phase of the Jongeldy deposit is projected to require $214 million over three years, primarily funded by foreign entities. Navoiuran will act as project operator, with the objective of minimizing production costs and integrating mining with existing infrastructure. The average annual uranium production is expected to reach 500 tonnes, potentially scaling to 700 tonnes at South Jongeldy.
To facilitate this venture, a joint venture named Nurlikum Mining will be formed, with ITOCHU acquiring an interest. This cooperation highlights the international character of the project, thus heightening its investment attractiveness.
The project emerges in the wake of Orano’s loss of mining assets in Niger, as the new leadership in Niger has conveyed that French companies may not regain their rights to uranium mining there. This development has prompted Orano Mining to explore alternative production opportunities, emphasizing investments in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Namibia, and Canada.
The World Nuclear Association noted that Niger ranked seventh in global uranium production in 2022, contributing 3.47% to the world’s supply. Previously, Orano sourced roughly 1,200 tonnes from Niger, contrasting with 5,000 tonnes sourced from Canada. The loss in Niger has rendered Central Asian projects a primary focus for the company.
The Jongeldy project’s development aligns with a comprehensive cooperation strategy established in 2022, which began with a strategic framework agreement between Orano and the Uzbek government. In a notable meeting in November 2023, Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Orano Chairwoman Claude Imauven reiterated commitments to expand collaboration in uranium exploration and extraction.
Furthermore, Orano Mining is expanding its operations in other regions. In December 2024, they signed a preliminary agreement with Mongolia regarding the Zoovch-Ovoo deposit. In February 2025, CEO Nicolas Maes announced plans to seek an agreement for a small-scale mining operation in Uzbekistan.
The trilateral agreement signifies a pivotal advancement for Uzbekistan’s uranium industry. The Jongeldy project’s implementation promises to enhance uranium production and strengthen Uzbekistan’s position in the international uranium market. As geopolitical circumstances evolve, Uzbekistan is becoming an essential partner for Orano, while also providing Japan with opportunities for stable uranium supply.
In summary, the agreement between Orano Mining, Navoiuran, and ITOCHU represents a significant advance for Uzbekistan’s uranium sector. It underscores the shift towards Central Asia for Orano following the loss of assets in Niger, while enhancing the country’s global standing in uranium production. The initiative not only opens new avenues for investment but also signifies a strengthening of international partnerships in the energy sector. Furthermore, with Japan’s interest, it sets the stage for deeper cooperation in the future.
Original Source: news.az
