Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, Kohir Rasulzoda, leading an official delegation, visited the International Mineralogy Laboratory and Research Center (IMLRC) — a unique joint initiative of Tajikistan’s Ministry of Industry and New Technologies, NUST MISIS, and foreign investors. The project is included in a government decree and is under the personal supervision of the country’s president.
The laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge technology from leading manufacturers for research on mineral raw material processing (ore preparation, beneficiation, dewatering, pyro- and hydrometallurgy) and sample preparation for AAS, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES analyses. Experts will analyze ores, processing products, and solutions according to international standards, conduct technological audits for enterprises, and support government agencies in promoting sustainable and transparent management of Tajikistan’s resources. All analytical procedures undergo strict internal and external quality control.
The delegation included representatives from ministries, relevant agencies, executive authorities, and leaders of over 40 major mining and metallurgical companies.
“For the efficient use of Tajikistan’s mineral resources, such a laboratory was needed 30 years ago. Today, thanks to the country’s human capital and investor support, it has become a reality. This laboratory will serve the interests of all—the state, companies, and the academic community — ensuring objectivity, transparency, and fairness in resource management,” emphasized Prime Minister Kohir Rasulzoda.
The laboratory will employ researchers and graduates of NUST MISIS’s Dushanbe branch, who will participate in technological audits of enterprises commissioned by the government and private sector.
Tajikistan’s Minister of Industry and New Technologies, Sherali Kabir, stated, “From the very beginning, we promoted this joint idea with NUST MISIS, recognizing the importance of such a laboratory for the country. It was our ministry that attracted investors and oversees the project’s implementation. We see this as a long-term strategy for resource governance, investment attraction, and industry trust-building.”
Muminjon Juraev, Director of NUST MISIS’s Dushanbe branch, noted that the laboratory’s creation was made possible by the strategic vision and support of the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies.
“We are proud that our branch has become the platform for a project capable of transforming the scientific and industrial landscape of the region. Today, the Dushanbe branch of NUST MISIS is not just an educational but also a research hub in Central Asia,” he added.
Speaking before the delegation, Kholiknazar Kholikov, head of “Anzob GOK”, remarked, “We, the companies, fully support the establishment of this center. We call for transparency, accuracy, and professionalism in sample analysis. This is a crucial step toward fair partnership and objective regulation in the industry.”
The laboratory is currently undergoing accreditation procedures. Once certified under the ISO/IEC 17025 standard, it will become Tajikistan’s only independent analytical and research center for the mining and metallurgical sector with international status.
