The 31st Central Asian International Exhibition “Mining Equipment, Ore and Mineral Mining and Processing” – Mining and Metals Central Asia 2026 – officially opens today in Almaty, bringing together the international mining and metallurgical community from 16 to 18 September 2026. 

 

As one of Central Asia’s leading industry platforms, Mining and Metals Central Asia continues to play an important role in connecting Kazakhstan’s mining and metallurgical sector with international expertise, technology and investment. The exhibition brings together equipment manufacturers, subsoil users, mining and metallurgical companies, investors, engineering specialists, research centres and representatives of state development institutions. 

 

This year’s edition welcomes 520 companies from 30 countries, reflecting the growing international interest in Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian mining market. Austria, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Russia and Türkiye are represented by national groups, while 62 companies are entering the Kazakhstan market through the exhibition for the first time. 

 

Across more than 20,000 sq. m of exhibition space, participants are presenting technologies, machinery and solutions covering the full mining and metallurgical value chain. The outdoor exhibition area features approximately 150 units of heavy machinery and mining equipment, giving industry professionals an opportunity to explore the latest developments in equipment and production technologies. 

 

Advancing the Future of Mining and Metallurgy 

 

Beyond the exhibition floor, Mining and Metals Central Asia 2026 features an extensive two-day business programme addressing some of the most important issues influencing the future of the industry. 

 

A key highlight is the plenary session, “Critical Minerals and the Future of Kazakhstan’s Mining and Metallurgical Complex: From Resources to Projects,” which will explore the development of production chains, deeper processing of raw materials, high-value-added manufacturing, improvements to the regulatory environment and opportunities for greater international cooperation. 

 

GEOTECH FORUM will once again provide an expert platform for dialogue on the development of Kazakhstan’s mining and geological sectors. Supported by the Kazakhstan Chamber of Mines, discussions will examine the future of the mining industry within Kazakhstan’s evolving political and economic landscape, as well as the transition from automation towards intelligent management and robotisation. 

 

Digital transformation also takes centre stage through a dedicated AI Stage, focusing on the digital maturity of mining enterprises, artificial intelligence and the integration of advanced technologies into production processes. 

 

The programme features Dr Ali Soofastaei of Australia, a recognised international specialist in digital transformation and artificial intelligence within the mining industry, whose experience includes work with major global mining companies including BHP, Vale and Newmont. 

 

Further industry discussions and technical sessions will be delivered by companies and organisations including Epiroc, Sandvik, CIDRA Minerals Processing Inc. and Norservice. The programme will also feature a Canadian group seminar, an industry round-table organised jointly with the Association of Mining and Metallurgical Enterprises (AMME), and the presentation of an industry journal. 

 

Connecting Kazakhstan with the Global Mining Industry 

 

Kazakhstan’s extensive mineral resources, established industrial base and strategic position between major international markets continue to strengthen its importance within the global mining and metallurgical landscape. 

 

Against this backdrop, Mining and Metals Central Asia provides an important meeting point for government, industry and the international business community to exchange expertise, explore investment opportunities, identify potential partners and discover technologies capable of supporting greater efficiency, productivity and sustainable industry development. 

 

For international companies, the exhibition provides direct access to one of Central Asia’s most significant mining markets. For Kazakhstan’s industry, it creates opportunities to engage with global manufacturers, technology providers, investors and experts while strengthening the international partnerships required for the sector’s continued modernisation. 

 

Over three days, Almaty becomes a focal point for discussions surrounding critical minerals, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, automation, geological exploration, processing technologies and the next generation of mining projects. 

 

Mining and Metals Central Asia 2026 therefore represents more than an exhibition. It is an international platform for building partnerships, exchanging knowledge and supporting the long-term development of Kazakhstan and Central Asia’s mining and metallurgical industries. 

 

The event is held with the official support of the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Almaty, the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Association of Mining and Metallurgical Enterprises (AMME). 

 

The organisers extend their sincere appreciation to all partners, participants, supporting institutions, industry associations, speakers and stakeholders whose commitment and collaboration have contributed to the successful delivery of Mining and Metals Central Asia 2026. Special thanks are extended to the event partners – KOMPOZIT Research and Production Association, ALTYNARNA GEOSYNTHETICS and MELITEK KAZAKHSTAN LLP – as well as to all organisations supporting the exhibition and its extensive business programme. 

 

We also express our gratitude to the organising teams and partners behind the event, whose dedication, expertise and months of preparation have brought together the international mining and metallurgical community in Almaty. Their continued commitment has been instrumental in strengthening Mining and Metals Central Asia as an important platform for industry dialogue, technological exchange and international cooperation. 

 

Finally, we thank the participating companies, together with the industry professionals, experts, speakers and visitors joining us in Almaty. Their participation is what gives the exhibition its international reach and creates opportunities for meaningful dialogue, new business relationships and long-term partnerships. 

 

As Mining and Metals Central Asia 2026 opens its doors, we look forward to three productive days of international dialogue, knowledge exchange, technological discovery and new business connections. We wish all participants, partners and visitors a successful exhibition and look forward to the partnerships and opportunities that will emerge over the coming days.