Tokayev orders at least three REM enterprises to be launched in Kazakhstan in coming years

ASTANA. Sept 8 (Interfax) - Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has instructed the government to establish at least three enterprises producing rare earth metals (REM) and other critical materials in Kazakhstan.

"In light of global trends, rare earth metals and other critical materials have become particularly important now. Kazakhstan has every chance of establishing a firm position in global production and trade chains in this field. Within the next three years, we must launch at least three enterprises producing high-tech products of this type," Tokayev said in his annual address to the nation at a joint parliament meeting on Monday.

"The government is also tasked with implementing a number of flagship projects in the field of advanced hydrocarbon feedstock processing," he said.