In the Karaganda Region, practical implementation has begun on the “Northern Katpar” project, linked to investments from the sons of the US President, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. Together with the “Verkhneye Kairakty” deposit, the project is estimated to produce around 12,000 tonnes of tungsten products per year — roughly 15% of current global output.
WHAT IS HAPPENING AT THE DEPOSIT
According to data from the Karaganda Region Akimat, preparatory work at the “Northern Katpar” deposit has been under way for the second month. Infrastructure, access roads, and geodetic surveys are being carried out at the site.
At the same time, the final feasibility study for the project is being developed. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Under the current schedule, main construction could begin in 2028, with commissioning works in 2029.
EXPECTED PRODUCTION VOLUME
According to current estimates, the “Northern Katpar” and “Verkhneye Kairakty” deposits could produce around 12,000 tonnes of tungsten products per year. This equates to approximately 15% of current global tungsten output.
The project involves not only ore extraction and beneficiation but also deep tungsten processing directly in Kazakhstan. Once the project launches, it is expected to create 1,200 jobs.
The Chief Executive of Cove Kaz Capital Group, Dominic Heaton, stated that the company has begun the industrial implementation of the project and aims to establish a modern tungsten mining and processing industry in the country.
CONTEXT
It was previously reported that US company Cove Kaz Capital received around $1.6 billion in US government funding to implement the tungsten deposit development project at Northern Katpar and Verkhneye Kairakty in Kazakhstan. According to the Financial Times, the company has also requested additional funding, which could bring total government support to $2 billion.
According to the publication, the sons of the US President, Donald Trump — Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. — are linked to the project. They became co-owners of the company that subsequently acquired 20% stakes in Kaz Resources, which is associated with the development of Kazakh deposits.
Later, US Senator Elizabeth Warren sent inquiries to four US federal agencies requesting clarification on the oversight arrangements for the mining project. The move was prompted by questions over a potential conflict of interest in the provision of government funding.
