Japan Shows Interest in Kyrgyz Antimony and Silicon: Talks in Tokyo

Japanese entrepreneurs are considering the possibility of purchasing antimony and silicon from Kyrgyzstan. The negotiations were conducted by Speaker of Jogorku Kenesh Marlen Mamataliеv in Tokyo as part of an official visit, according to a statement from the parliament's press service.

The meeting took place with representatives of major Japanese companies led by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Chairman of the Board Takeshi Hashimoto. The parties discussed the expansion of trade and economic cooperation and opportunities to attract investments. Specific delivery volumes, commodity prices, and contract timelines have not yet been announced.

Matatalyеv presented Kyrgyzstan's investment opportunities in logistics infrastructure, energy, and rare earth metal processing. He proposed including a route through Kyrgyzstan among pilot shipments on the Transcaspian International Transport Corridor, citing Mitsui O.S.K. Lines' experience in maritime and logistics transportation. The Speaker also noted that the country's geographic position and EAEU membership open access for foreign business to Central Asian markets and union member states.

Hashimoto emphasized the importance of informing Japanese entrepreneurs about Kyrgyzstan's economic potential and business conditions in the country.

Separately, Mamataliеv met in Tokyo with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Akihiko Tanaka. The parties discussed cooperation in healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. Mamataliеv highly praised JICA's participation in updating medical equipment in Bishkek, Chuy region, and other areas, and expressed interest in expanding such projects throughout the country. Special attention was paid to the implementation of PET-CT, joint oncology initiatives, and attracting Japanese specialists and companies to create a modern medical city.

The Speaker recalled that following the Kyrgyz-Japanese business forum held during President Sadyr Japarov's official visit to Japan, the parties signed over 20 documents in the fields of energy, education, healthcare, tourism, and digitalization.