Sarytogan Graphite Limited managing director Sean Gregory tells Proactive's Stephen Gunnion that the company's Sarytogan Graphite Project in Central Kazakhstan places it firmly on the map for future graphite demand.
The ASX-listed company is currently progressing the project towards a pre-feasibility study, expected in the third quarter of 2024.
Regarding Kazakhstan as a mining jurisdiction, Gregory highlighted the positive aspects. Kazakhstan boasts modern, sophisticated cities and beautiful open spaces. The mining legislation in Kazakhstan is modern and modelled after the Western Australian Mining Act, which is highly regarded. Kazakhstan is a significant player in various sectors, including uranium production, oil and gas, and minerals like copper and gold.
Gregory noted that infrastructure in Kazakhstan is well-developed, with good roads, highways, and access to power. The power cost in Kazakhstan is in the lowest quartile globally, providing a significant advantage to mining operations.
In the graphite market, the dynamics are shifting due to China's recent export ban on graphite. China produces a substantial portion of the world's graphite and battery anodes, raising concerns about supply chain security. Western jurisdictions are looking to diversify their sources of raw materials, and Kazakhstan's graphite is well-positioned to meet this demand.
Additionally, the European Union is collaborating with Kazakhstan to ensure a sustainable supply of battery raw materials, and the European Battery Passport legislation aims to provide transparency regarding the source and environmental impact of raw materials.
Gregory said Kazakhstan's strategic location between China and Europe presents an opportunity to provide high-quality, sustainable graphite to the European market.
Overall, he expressed confidence in the potential for Sarytogan Graphite in the evolving graphite market and the advantages of operating in Kazakhstan.
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