Photo courtesy of Kaztag.kz
More than 250 workers from Shaft No. 65 at the Yuzhny Kazakhstan mine in Satpayev, Ulytau Region, Kazakhstan, initiated a spontaneous strike on December 17, KazTAG reports.
The protesters refused to descend underground, demanding wage increases and improved working conditions. Initially, the workers sought a 30% salary hike but later escalated their demand to a 100% increase and a reduction in pressure from government agencies, according to the agency’s source.
In response, Kazakhmys Corporation, the mine’s operator, issued a statement the same day announcing plans for a salary indexation in early 2025, accounting for inflation.
“Wages are expected to increase by 8.5%. The average worker’s income will rise to 822,000 tenge ($1,500), and for underground professions, to 1,303,000 tenge ($2,500),” the company stated.
Additionally, Kazakhmys revealed proposals to enhance employee benefits as part of a new collective agreement for 2025–2029.
The conflict remains unresolved as negotiations continue. The miners are awaiting concrete action from the company’s management, Orda.kz reports.
This is not the first strike by Kazakhmys employees. Last summer, miners halted work with similar demands. The company’s management eventually reached an agreement with the protesters.
About Kazakhmys Corporation:
Kazakhmys is a major metallurgical company in Kazakhstan, specializing in copper ore extraction and processing. It ranks among the world’s leading copper producers. The company operates extensive copper deposits in Kazakhstan, managing numerous mines and ore processing facilities, with its primary production concentrated in the Ulytau and Karaganda regions.
