Kazakhstan turns to AI to unlock Soviet-era geological data for investors
Ministry plans to complete digitization of 1950s–80s reports this year to boost mining sector transparency and investment
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Industry and Construction is harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze decades-old geological data in a bid to modernize its mining sector and attract new investment, Vice Minister Zhannat Dubirova announced at the MINEX Kazakhstan 2025 forum.
According to Kursive Media, the ministry is working to digitize geological records from the 1950s to 1980s and integrate AI tools capable of analyzing characteristics of mineral deposits and generating predictive models based on this historical data. The digitization process is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Dubirova said the AI system already recognizes up to 90% of the data, including low-quality scans. Human operators intervene when the software lacks confidence in its interpretation. So far, 56,200 geological reports have been digitized.
“We must build a full cycle by 2026, process all geological information and convert this data into a machine-readable format,” Dubirova said. “As a result, big data will be available to investors in a convenient form on the Unified Subsoil Use Platform.”
Launched earlier this year, the Unified Subsoil Use Platform streamlines all licensing procedures for subsoil use in Kazakhstan. Through the portal, users can submit exploration and production applications and track the full process online. An interactive map highlights both licensed zones and areas available for auction.
Since its launch, the platform has processed 506 applications and facilitated digital auctions for 21 sites, generating nearly $40 million in investments. According to Dubirova, the platform allows investors to participate directly in auctions without the need for intermediaries.
The ministry has also digitized the process for monitoring license compliance, a task that was previously carried out manually for around 3,000 licenses and contracts related to solid minerals.
Officials say the reforms are part of a broader push to increase transparency, efficiency, and investor confidence in Kazakhstan’s mining and natural resources sector.
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