Following the footsteps of its Big Daddy United States of America ,Pakistan,home to a vast array of critical minerals, including copper, gold, iron ore, chromite, bauxite, and rare earth elements is now planning in a big way to exploit country’s geological landscape, particularly in the provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, holds significant potential for mineral extraction and economic growth to tide it’s poverty and debt crisis.
The Government of Pakistan recently hosted a global conference Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25) took place on April 8-9, 2025, in Islamabad focusing on critical minerals, from its vast potential politically disturbed landscape of Baluchistan’s mineral resources. The conference brought together international experts, investors, and policymakers to discuss the opportunities and challenges in the region’s critical mineral sector.
International Participation The conference saw participation from many global players in Metals and mining from countries of USA,China ,Turkey,UK etc . Global Gold mining giants like Barrick Gold,Anglo American etc attended the event.
Global banking major ,World Bank expressed interest in supporting Pakistan’s mining sector,Further International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlighted the potential of critical minerals for economic growth.
The International Conference on Critical mineral’s focused on unlocking Pakistan’s mineral wealth, with a spotlight on critical minerals and featured distinguished speakers, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and Minister of Energy.
Balochistan: A Treasure Trove of Critical Minerals
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest and least populated province, is endowed with an abundance of critical minerals. The region’s unique geology makes it an attractive destination for mining investments. Some of the notable critical minerals found in Balochistan include:
Copper and Gold: The Reko Diq copper-gold deposit in Balochistan is one of the largest in the world.
Iron Ore: Balochistan’s iron ore deposits are estimated to be worth billions of dollars.
Chromite: The province is home to significant chromite reserves, a key component in stainless steel production.
Bauxite:Balochistan’s bauxite deposits are crucial for aluminum production. Challenges and Opportunities While Pakistan’s critical mineral resources hold great promise, there are several challenges that need to be addressed.
Infrastructure :Inadequate infrastructure, including roads, ports, and energy supply, hinders mining operations.
Security: The region’s security situation can be volatile, deterring foreign investment.
Regulatory Framework: A clear and stable regulatory environment is essential for attracting investment. Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s critical mineral sector presents opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
The government and private sector must work together to bring in investor confidence in long run.