Deputies of the Mazhilis of the Republic of Kazakhstan approved amendments to the Code On Subsoil and Subsoil Use related to uranium mining.
Document will allow to regulate conditions of uranium mining. In accordance with the new rules, if deposit with an increase of more than 30% of the initial volume is discovered, then subsoil users will be required to fulfill a number of social obligations. Or, more specifically, to implement an economic project in the region. A special authorized body will monitor this process.
Deputy Irina Unzhakova noted that all enterprises-subsoil users work on outdated geological data today. Therefore, the draft law proposes to regulate procedure for extending period of uranium mining, as well as, if necessary, conducting an additional study of the site within the contract territory.
"As it is known, on January 1, 2019, the Tax Code canceled payment of commercial discovery bonus in the amount of one percent. And at present, with the increase in reserves, subsoil user does not make payments that were previously used for social needs of the region. Therefore, we consider it fair to introduce social obligations when a significant increase in uranium reserves is detected", the Mazhilisman explained.
In addition, it is proposed to supplement the legislation with a project to eliminate consequences of uranium mining, which should contain measures on liquidation of all technological facilities.
