Pakistan Targets $8 Billion Mineral Exports
Pakistan wants a bigger share of the global critical minerals market. The country has discovered 92 minerals so far. Of these, 52 are currently mined for commercial use.
With better policies, infrastructure and investment, mineral exports could grow from $3 billion to $8 billion. As a result, Pakistan could earn more foreign exchange. It could also strengthen its place in global mineral supply chains.
The country’s mineral reserves are worth an estimated $8 trillion. However, the sector adds less than 3 percent to Pakistan’s gross domestic product (GDP). This shows how much room the sector has to grow.
The Reko Diq project will play a major role in this growth. It is the largest foreign investment project in Pakistan. The first phase should begin production by the end of 2028.
Once it is running, Reko Diq should produce about 240,000 tonnes of copper every year. It should also produce around 297,000 ounces of gold annually. Therefore, the project could boost mining output and export earnings.
Pakistan has also signed agreements with US Strategic Metals, a company from the United States. The deals aim to develop critical minerals. They also show the country’s efforts to attract foreign investment and build partnerships.
To promote these opportunities, Pakistan will host the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026. The event takes place on November 12 and 13 at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad.
Officials, international investors and industry leaders will attend. Together, they will discuss mineral exploration, investment and the growth of the mining sector.
