In a landmark agreement, India and Kazakhstan have collaborated to launch a joint venture named IREUK Titanium Limited, aimed at boosting titanium slag production in India. This venture represents India’s first joint initiative in Central Asia and is a significant move in enhancing the titanium value chain for the country.
The agreement was finalized between Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) and Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant (UKTMP), two renowned players in the titanium industry. This collaboration will focus on converting low-grade ilmenite into high-grade titanium feedstock, fostering titanium production in India and generating local employment.
IREL, operating under India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), has access to ample ilmenite reserves from its Odisha facilities, while UKTMP, a globally recognized vertically integrated titanium producer, will contribute its specialized knowledge in refining raw materials into valuable titanium products like titanium sponge and ingots.
The official signing of the agreement was conducted by Deependra Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of IREL (India) Limited, and Assem Mamutova, President of UKTMP. This partnership is expected to solidify India’s stance in the global titanium market and bolster the rare earth and critical minerals sector in the region.
