Pakistan aims to leverage untapped mineral wealth for strategic economic growth

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is taking major steps to transform its untapped mineral resources, valued at billions of dollars, into a foundation for strategic economic development, according to a report published in The National Interest.

As per the details, the country is implementing comprehensive reforms in its mining sector to align policies with international standards, attract global investment, and enhance transparency through international partnerships. These efforts aim to position Pakistan as a strategic hub for critical minerals.

As part of these initiatives, Pakistan is promoting the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF) 2026, scheduled for April, to showcase the country as an investment-ready mining economy and attract international investors.

The Reko Diq project, home to one of the world’s largest copper and gold reserves with 5.9 billion tons of mineral deposits, exemplifies the country’s enormous potential. The project is expected to generate billions in revenue and create thousands of jobs.

Pakistan’s gemstone industry is also poised for growth. Although the total value of precious stones in the country is estimated at around $45 billion, current annual exports stand at only $5.8 million. To tap this potential, the government has introduced its first-ever national gemstone policy, emphasizing modern certification, value addition, and youth entrepreneurship. The policy aims to increase gemstone exports to $1 billion within the next five years.

In addition, Pakistan holds significant potential in lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which could integrate the country into the global supply chain for emerging technologies. Mineral reforms are expected to facilitate technology transfer, industrial growth, and the creation of new economic opportunities.

Experts project that with the development of the mineral and gemstone sectors, Pakistan could see an annual GDP boost of $5–7 billion over the next decade, along with thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Through these initiatives, Pakistan is presenting itself as a reliable and responsible partner in the global minerals market.