Central Asia’s Resource Boom Hinges on Reform, Investment and Transparency

Central Asia is emerging as a key player in the global race for critical minerals, but much of its potential remains unrealised. A new OECD report, prepared with support from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and contributions from OECD research bodies, highlights how Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic and Uzbekistan hold vast reserves of minerals essential for clean energy, electronics and modern technologies. These include copper, chromium, manganese and rare earth elements, all crucial for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems and digital infrastructure. Despite this wealth, the region has yet to fully capitalise on its resources. Much of…