French multinational nuclear fuel company Orano and Uzbekistan’s Navoiyuran have signed an agreement to accelerate the industrial development of the South Djengeldi uranium deposit, further expanding their joint venture, Nurlikum Mining. The deal also introduces Japan’s ITOCHU Corporation as a minority stakeholder, enhancing international collaboration in the project.

Under the terms of the deal, the South Djengeldi project will be integrated into Navoiyuran’s existing industrial base, with Navoiyuran serving as the project’s operator. The collaboration reinforces the partners’ commitment to expanding uranium production in Uzbekistan.

With certified resources to date, the South Djengeldi project is expected to sustain production for over a decade, peaking at 700 metric tons of uranium annually. Additionally, an exploration program is planned to at least double the joint venture’s mineral resources.

This project is a key element of the wider strategic collaboration between Orano and Uzbekistan, built upon a framework agreement established in 2022. 

“This project contributes to diversifying the group’s production sources. This new phase was made possible by the work undertaken over the past five years in Uzbekistan. Orano aims to bring its geological and technical expertise to further develop the project and support the expansion of the company’s operations,” Xavier Saint Martin Tillet, Orano’s Senior Executive Vice President for mining activities, highlighted its importance, stated.

Navoiyuran is the world’s fifth-largest uranium producer, specializing in natural uranium extraction and processing. With over 9,000 employees, the company utilizes advanced in-situ leaching technology to enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.

In 2022, Uzbekistan accounted for 7% of global output and aims to increase annual production to 7,000 tons by 2030. In 2019, Orano and state-owned Navoiyuran formed Nurlikum Mining (51% Orano, 49% Navoiyuran) to develop uranium deposits, including Djengeldi. 

In 2023, Uzbek uranium supplied nearly 10% of U.S. demand, as U.S. utilities increased imports by 27%, while domestic production remained at just 5% of total supply.

ITOCHU is a leading Japanese trading house engaged in diverse industries, including energy, metals, and minerals. Committed to sustainability, the company actively supports the global transition to clean energy and carbon neutrality.