Government export policy changes to support the project
The Government of Kazakhstan abolished the 10 % export duty on gallium to stimulate production and exports of this strategic metal. At the same meeting, authorities also banned exports of certain non-ferrous metal blanks and ingots until the end of 2025 to maintain domestic raw material supply and support value-added processing industries. These policy changes strengthen the commercial viability of the ERG gallium project. 

Strategic classification and market context
Gallium is on the critical minerals lists of the United States and the European Union due to its essential role in semiconductors, radar systems, and other advanced technologies. Kazakhstan’s entry into gallium production via this project aligns with global demand for diversified supply chains outside China, which currently dominates gallium output.

Export plans beyond Japan
ERG plans not only to supply gallium to Mitsubishi Corporation RtM Japan Ltd under the signed contract but also to export gallium to European markets starting in 2026, reflecting broader export strategy for OECD partners.

Potential for future expansion
Some reports indicate the possibility of expanding production capacity beyond the initial 15 tonnes per year (up to ~20 tonnes annually with future phases), which would further strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a major gallium supplier globally.

Integration with existing alumina infrastructure
The gallium extraction process is integrated into the existing alumina production chain at the Pavlodar Alumina Plant (part of AO “Aluminium Kazakhstan”), leveraging red mud waste streams rather than requiring a fully separate mining operation. This integration reduces capital risk and enhances sustainability by utilizing by-products.

Broader strategic agreements with Japanese partners
Within the same diplomatic and business engagement framework as the gallium contract, ERG signed memoranda of understanding with other major Japanese companies (Hitachi and Mitsui) covering potential cooperation on decarbonization, advanced technology implementation, and modernization of equipment. These agreements could indirectly benefit project implementation and technology transfer.