Under the terms of the agreement, the South Djengeldi project will be integrated into Navoiyuran’s existing industrial base, with Navoiyuran serving as the project’s operator. This collaboration underscores the partners’ commitment to expanding uranium production in Uzbekistan.
With certified resources already identified, the South Djengeldi project is expected to sustain production for over a decade, reaching an annual peak of 700 metric tons of uranium. Additionally, an extensive exploration program is planned to at least double the joint venture’s mineral resources.
This initiative is a key component of the broader strategic partnership between Orano and Uzbekistan, established under a framework agreement signed in 2022.
“This project contributes to diversifying the group’s production sources. This new phase was made possible by the work undertaken over the past five years in Uzbekistan. Orano aims to bring its geological and technical expertise to further develop the project and support the expansion of the company’s operations,” said Xavier Saint Martin Tillet, Orano’s Senior Executive Vice President for mining activities.
Navoiyuran, the world’s fifth-largest uranium producer, specializes in natural uranium extraction and processing. With over 9,000 employees, the company leverages advanced in-situ leaching technology to enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
In 2022, Uzbekistan accounted for 7% of global uranium production and aims to increase annual output to 7,000 metric tons by 2030. Orano and state-owned Navoiyuran established Nurlikum Mining in 2019 (51% Orano, 49% Navoiyuran) to develop uranium deposits, including South Djengeldi.
In 2023, Uzbek uranium supplied nearly 10% of U.S. demand, as U.S. utilities increased imports by 27% while domestic production remained at just 5% of total supply.
ITOCHU, a leading Japanese trading house with a strong presence in the energy, metals, and minerals sectors, is also part of the joint venture. Committed to sustainability, ITOCHU actively supports the global transition to clean energy and carbon neutrality.