President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev participated in the launch of the third copper processing plant in Almalyk, Tashkent region. The new facility is part of a series of large projects that are being put into operation on the eve of Ramadan and Navruz. According to the head of state, such initiatives are aimed at developing the economy, creating jobs, and improving the well-being of citizens.
The project cost $2.7 billion. The new plant is seen not just as an industrial enterprise, but as a modern industrial complex that will significantly increase the depth of processing of natural resources and strengthen the country's industrial potential.
In recent years, the mining and metallurgical industry of Uzbekistan has undergone a major transformation. Previously, only two plants were engaged in the extraction of precious and non-ferrous metals, but thanks to reforms and attracting about $10 billion in foreign investment, there are now 65 private companies operating in the sector. Gold production in recent years has reached 118.4 tons, and the production of silver, uranium, and copper has also increased, with the total output of the industry growing to 270 trillion soums.
At the same time, the incomes of specialists are increasing: excavator operators can earn up to 30 million soums, drillers and quarry truck drivers up to 40 million, and geologists and surveyors up to 70 million soums.