Spanish Firm Plans Construction of Ammonia and Urea Complex in Aktau

The Spanish engineering company Técnicas Reunidas is set to establish a major presence in Kazakhstan with the construction of an ammonia and urea complex in Aktau. The announcement was made by the Prime Minister's office on December 14, indicating a significant move for the Spanish firm into the Central Asian nation's fertilizing industry.

This landmark project will be undertaken in collaboration with KazAzot and KazMunaiGas, two prominent Kazakh companies. The trio's involvement in developing the documentation for the new complex was welcomed by the Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov during a meeting with Técnicas Reunidas Chairman Juan Lladó. In addition to the ammonia and urea complex, the companies will also develop a polyethylene production plant in the Atyrau region.

Prime Minister Smailov highlighted the importance of this venture, stating that the introduction of urea production through the construction of the complex would lead to the production of a unique nitrogen-containing fertilizer suitable for various types of soil. This marks a significant step forward in the development of Kazakhstan's agricultural sector.

Técnicas Reunidas is no stranger to Kazakhstan. The company has been involved in engineering works within the country's oil and gas industry between 2002 and 2004, and established an office in Astana in 2020, demonstrating its long-term commitment to the Kazakh market.

Chairman Lladó assured that his company had begun work on these critical projects several months ago. He expressed Técnicas Reunidas' commitment to exploring optimal solutions and ensuring efficient construction in collaboration with local companies. This signifies the company's dedication to achieving success in their ventures in Kazakhstan.

Spain and Kazakhstan have a strong economic and trade partnership, with Spain being a significant player within the European Union's dealings with Kazakhstan. The past year alone saw a 42% increase in trade transactions between the two countries. Spanish companies have made substantial investments of approximately $300 million in Kazakhstan since 2005, with well-known Spanish brands such as Pronovias, Maxam, and Inditex having a significant presence in the country.

During the 13th session of the Kazakhstan-European Union (EU) dialogue platform on December 13, Prime Minister Smailov underscored the growing presence of European companies in Kazakhstan. The EU stands as Kazakhstan's largest trading and investment ally, with accumulated investments exceeding $175 billion. In the first half of the current year alone, EU nations have invested $5.2 billion in the Kazakh economy. This reflects the deepening economic collaboration between Kazakhstan and the European Union.

In conclusion, the involvement of Técnicas Reunidas in the construction of the ammonia and urea complex in Aktau represents a significant step forward in the economic ties between Spain and Kazakhstan. It also underscores the growing appeal of Kazakhstan as an investment hub for European companies. With the commencement of this project, we can expect to see further growth and development in the Kazakh agricultural sector, and a strengthening of the nation's economic ties with Spain and the wider EU.