Subsoil and Subsoil Use Code — 2018 reform

Kazakhstan’s primary subsoil use framework is governed by the Subsoil and Subsoil Use Code (Code No. 125-VI dated 27 December 2017, effective 29 June 2018). The Code replaced the previous Law on Subsoil and Subsoil Use and introduced a new classification of subsoil use contracts — exploration contracts, production contracts, combined exploration and production contracts, and contracts for the extraction of mineral water and therapeutic mud. The Code also introduced the principle of competitive allocation of subsoil use rights through auctions.

Oil & gas licensing — Ministry of Energy

Oil and gas subsoil use contracts are issued by the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan. Contracts are awarded through competitive tender or direct negotiation for strategic fields. Foreign companies may hold subsoil use rights subject to Kazakhstani local content requirements — domestic procurement, local employment obligations, and technology transfer commitments. Bond Stone advises on subsoil use contract structuring, local content compliance, and work programme obligations.

Renewable energy — licences and connection approvals

Kazakhstan’s renewable energy sector is regulated under the Law on Supporting the Use of Renewable Energy Sources. Renewable energy producers must obtain electricity production licences and connection approvals from the System Operator (KEGOC). Renewable energy projects benefit from fixed tariff support under Kazakhstan’s renewable energy auction system. Bond Stone advises on renewable energy licence applications, grid connection agreements, and power purchase agreement structuring with the Single Buyer (KOREM).

Agency for Atomic Energy — 2025 reform

In 2025, Kazakhstan established a dedicated Agency for Atomic Energy reporting directly to the President. The Agency now oversees sectoral policy and regulates uranium exploration and mining — functions previously under the Ministry of Industry and Construction. Amendments to the Subsoil Use Code adopted alongside this reform tightened the regulatory framework and consolidated state control over uranium mining. Bond Stone advises on uranium sector regulatory compliance and licensing under the new Agency for Atomic Energy framework.

Subsoil Use Contract — Solid Minerals

Licensing · Kazakhstan · Mining

Advising a mining company on subsoil use contract negotiation under Kazakhstan’s Subsoil Use Code — auction participation, contract terms, work programme obligations, local content requirements, and Ministry of Industry and Construction liaison.

Renewable Energy Licence & Grid Connection

Licensing · Kazakhstan · Energy

Obtaining electricity production licence and grid connection approval for a solar energy project in Kazakhstan — KEGOC connection application, renewable energy tariff application, and power purchase agreement negotiation with KOREM.

Oil & Gas Local Content Compliance

Licensing · Kazakhstan · Oil & Gas

Advising an international oil company operating in Kazakhstan on local content compliance obligations under its subsoil use contract — domestic procurement reporting, Kazakhstani personnel requirements, and Ministry of Energy compliance submissions.