Pakistan seeks global mining partners to unlock mineral wealth

Pakistan is seeking to connect local miners and existing leaseholders with major international mining companies through joint ventures, technology transfers and financial partnerships to develop its largely untapped mineral resources.

The development came following a meeting between a delegation from Wood Mackenzie, an international energy consultancy and energy research company, and Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan to discuss investment opportunities, international partnerships and preparations for the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum.

During the meeting, the minister highlighted Pakistan’s vast and largely untapped mineral potential, particularly in copper, antimony, iron ore, gemstones and other critical minerals. He emphasised that developing the mining sector could significantly boost exports, attract foreign investment and create new opportunities for industrial growth.

Jam Kamal stressed the importance of investor-friendly policies, competitive taxation, reduced import duties on specialised mining equipment and greater coordination between federal and provincial governments to facilitate international investors.

He particularly emphasised connecting small-scale Pakistani miners and existing leaseholders with major international mining companies through joint ventures, technology transfer and financial partnerships.

Highlighting his ministry’s role, Jam said tariff rationalisation, trade agreements, improved market access and development of professional services could help Pakistan become a competitive destination for mineral investment.

The minister also advocated a phased approach to value addition, emphasising that commercially viable mining operations would pave the way for future investment in copper smelting, refining and downstream manufacturing.

He proposed stronger international collaboration across the mineral value chain, enabling countries to combine their strengths in exploration, processing, technology and trade.

The Wood Mackenzie delegation discussed international investment trends, fiscal competitiveness and opportunities for developing Pakistan’s mining-services ecosystem. The delegation also exchanged views on preparations for the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum and Pakistan’s potential to attract leading international mining investors.