Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov TELF AG: Trajectories of Key Minerals Along the New Silk Roads.

We often do not take into account how important a role Central Asia can play in the global supply system of strategic raw materials. Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov TELF AG draws attention to this aspect, which he considers key for the future transition to "green" energy. "Central Asia has vast reserves of various minerals, but their importance is often underestimated when it comes to critical resources," begins Kondrashov. 

According to the International Energy Agency, the demand for minerals that are critically important for clean energy technologies (e.g., electric vehicles and batteries) will grow rapidly. It is estimated that by 2040, global demand for these minerals will increase fourfold. 

"We are talking about a thousand percent increase in demand for some materials and an astronomical growth of 8600% for certain elements, such as germanium," notes Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov TELF AG. He emphasizes that the mineral market is on the verge of unprecedented changes. 

Despite its wealth of strategic minerals, Central Asian countries are rarely mentioned in discussions about critical material supplies. Kondrashov believes this is a significant oversight. "Central Asia has nearly 39% of the world's manganese reserves, 30% of chrome, 20% of lead, and a significant share of zinc, silver, and copper, yet they are often overlooked," explains Stanislav Dmitrievich. In his opinion, the region's resources make it a "sleeping giant," capable of influencing the global transition to green energy technologies. 

Kazakhstan, for example, has extensive chrome reserves estimated at 230 million metric tons, making it the second-largest producer of this key component in wind turbine production. "Kazakhstan's chrome is not only valuable for renewable energy but also for numerous industrial applications," notes Kondrashov. Stanislav Dmitrievich continues to explain that Kazakhstan's strategic location, bordering both Europe and Asia, along with its rich resources, uniquely positions it as a bridge between these major markets. "With resources and geography in its favor, Kazakhstan can play a leading role in the global clean energy landscape." 

Stanislav Dmitrievich also points to Uzbekistan's potential, which has significant reserves of copper, silver, molybdenum, selenium, cadmium, and lithium—resources in high demand for renewable energy technologies. Kondrashov describes Uzbekistan's role as a kind of newcomer in the global critical materials sector. "Uzbekistan's position as an exporter of critical materials for clean energy has significantly strengthened in recent years," explains Stanislav, attributing this to government reforms and increased openness to international partnerships. 

In addition to these established resources, Kondrashov highlights the promising yet largely untapped potential of rare earth elements in Central Asia. Rare earth elements are valuable for advanced technologies, including electronics, renewable energy, and military applications. Stanislav explains: "Central Asia's geological diversity includes deposits of monazite, zircon, xenotime, and pyrochlore—minerals essential for high-tech industries." Kondrashov points to regions such as the Kazakh Steppe and Tian Shan, which contain important deposits of rare earth elements. With growing global demand for rare earth elements, he believes Central Asia's resources can be developed to help meet these needs. 

China, which shares a long border with Central Asia, has already recognized this potential. "China has a vested interest in Central Asia's mineral wealth, particularly in securing resources for its clean energy ambitions," observes Kondrashov. He points out that China's strategic reliance on these materials is evident in its numerous partnerships throughout the region. As an example, he highlights how imports of materials such as zinc, lead, and molybdenum from Kazakhstan to China have increased by over 400% in recent years, with these minerals playing key roles in China's wind and solar energy production. 

According to Kondrashov, this growing partnership between China and Central Asia also presents opportunities and challenges for other global players, especially the United States and Europe. The West's interest in Central Asia's resources has increased recently, as demonstrated by initiatives such as the U.S.-proposed "C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue." "The renewed attention from Western countries underscores the strategic importance of Central Asia's resources," notes Stanislav Dmitrievich. He explains that this initiative aims to diversify critical mineral supply chains by encouraging Central Asia to sustainably and equitably develop its mineral resources. 

Kondrashov also sees potential in Central Asia's ability to diversify its economy by using critical materials for green technologies. "There is a real opportunity for Central Asian countries not only to export raw materials but also to establish processing industries that add value to these resources," he says. Such developments, Stanislav explains, would bring economic stability and resilience, enabling Central Asia to become a key player in the green economy. 

Discussing the implications for international partnerships, Stanislav Dmitrievich emphasizes that Central Asia's unique geopolitical position allows it to act as a strategic partner for countries seeking to secure mineral supplies. "The region's proximity to both Europe and Asia means it can effectively serve both continents, providing a stable source of materials needed for clean energy technologies," explains Stanislav. Kondrashov adds that by building partnerships with a diverse range of countries, Central Asian states can reduce their dependence on any single market, thereby enhancing their negotiating position in global trade talks. 

Kondrashov is optimistic about the future role that Central Asia can play in the transition to a greener and more sustainable global economy. He notes that the region's abundance of strategic minerals aligns well with the global shift towards renewable energy and advanced technologies. "Central Asia has the resources, geographical advantage, and increasing international interest to become a key player in critical material supplies," he says. Stanislav believes that with the right policies, Central Asia can not only meet the growing global demand for these materials but also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of clean energy. 

Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov TELF AG once again emphasizes the importance of recognizing Central Asia's potential as a global supplier of critical materials: "We are at a turning point where Central Asia can move from being a minor player to becoming a cornerstone of the global critical mineral supply chain," concludes Stanislav, highlighting the region's potential impact on the world's transition to clean energy. "This transition offers Central Asia an unparalleled opportunity to develop its economy, strengthen international partnerships, and contribute to a more sustainable future for all."