Tau-Ken Samruk National Company is investigating the potential for rare metals and rare earth element mining in Rwanda and Afghanistan, signaling Kazakhstan’s growing interest in expanding its global mineral footprint.

The announcement came from Kazakh Vice Minister of Industry and Construction, Iran Sharkhan, during the Geoscience & Exploration Central Asia 2026 forum, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Mineral samples from both countries have already been collected, with laboratory testing currently taking place in facilities operated by Tau-Ken Samruk and in the Karaganda region.

The studies focus on base metals, rare metals (RM), and rare earth elements (REE), while also analyzing the legal and regulatory frameworks for mining in Rwanda and Afghanistan.

Sharkhan emphasized that both nations hold significant geological promise. If initial results confirm this potential, Kazakhstan could move forward with more detailed assessments and eventual mining operations.