Pakistan seeks global mining partners to empower local miners, mineral exports
ISLAMABAD (Staff Report): Pakistan is seeking to connect small-scale domestic miners and existing mineral leaseholders with international mining companies through joint ventures, technology transfer and financial partnerships, as the government looks to unlock the country’s mineral wealth and gradually shift towards value-added mineral production.
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan highlighted the proposed strategy during a meeting with a delegation from international mining consultancy Wood Mackenzie, which discussed investment opportunities, international partnerships and preparations for the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum.
The minister stressed that partnerships between local miners and major international mining companies could help address financing and technological constraints in Pakistan’s mining sector, enabling domestic operators to benefit from international expertise, modern equipment and access to global markets.
Pakistan possesses considerable mineral resources, including copper, antimony, iron ore and gemstones, but much of its potential remains untapped. The government sees the development of the mining industry as an opportunity to diversify exports, attract foreign investment and create new avenues for industrial growth.
Beyond mineral extraction, the government is also considering a phased approach towards value addition, with commercially viable mining operations expected to provide the foundation for future investment in copper smelting, refining and downstream manufacturing.
Such a transition could help Pakistan move beyond exporting unprocessed mineral resources towards developing domestic processing capabilities and capturing a greater share of value from its mineral wealth.
Jam Kamal Khan emphasized that investor-friendly policies, competitive taxation, reduced import duties on specialized mining equipment and improved coordination between federal and provincial governments would be important in attracting international investors.
He also highlighted the role of tariff rationalization, trade agreements and improved market access in making Pakistan a competitive destination for mineral investment.
The Wood Mackenzie delegation discussed international mining investment trends, fiscal competitiveness and opportunities to develop Pakistan’s mining-services ecosystem. Discussions also covered preparations for the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, which the government hopes will attract leading international mining investors.
The proposed international partnerships could open opportunities for technology transfer, financing and industrial development, although translating Pakistan’s mineral potential into higher exports will depend on actual investment commitments, commercially viable projects and the development of domestic processing infrastructure.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming mineral resources into sustainable economic growth, enhanced exports, employment opportunities and long-term international investment partnerships.