Azerbaijan seeks to contribute to diversification of critical mineral supplies

Azerbaijan intends to contribute to diversifying global supplies of critical mineral resources. More than 1,000 mineral deposits have been registered in the country, while data from the State Geological Fund is currently being digitized to make information on available resources more accessible to potential investors, Azerbaijan"s Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Rashad Ismayilov said at the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum (AIIF 2026) in Baku.

According to Report, the minister said reliable supplies of critical minerals had become an important factor in economic security. The energy transition, the development of electric vehicles, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure are driving demand for new materials. At the same time, risks associated with geopolitical tensions, export restrictions and the concentration of supplies among a small number of producers are increasing.

"Geological exploration has enabled us to register more than 1,000 mineral deposits. The metal ore deposits identified in the Lesser Caucasus, Nakhchivan and the Balakan-Zagatala region provide a basis for assessing the potential of critical mineral resources," Ismayilov said.