EBRD makes 1st direct investment in C. Asia’s graphite sector

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has made its first direct equity investment in Central Asia’s graphite sector, acquiring a 17.36 per cent stake in Sarytogan Graphite Limited with an investment of AUD 5 million (€3 million).

This Australian Securities Exchange-listed company is focused on exploring the Sarytogan graphite deposit in Kazakhstan’s Karaganda region.

The EBRD’s investment will support Sarytogan Graphite’s development program, including a feasibility study and working capital.

Graphite, classified as a critical raw material by the European Union (EU), has various applications, including in electric vehicle batteries and the power industry. The Sarytogan deposit, one of the largest known, has the potential to become a major supplier of natural graphite.

This investment aligns with the EBRD’s new mining sector strategy, which supports the development of metals and minerals essential for green technologies.

It also complements the EU-Kazakhstan strategic partnership on raw materials and renewable hydrogen. The EBRD has previously invested €10.2 billion in 324 projects in Kazakhstan, focusing on private sector growth.

Attribution: The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)