PM Shehbaz invites investors to explore Pakistan's mineral potential

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently invited international investors to explore Pakistan's vast mineral resources and establish manufacturing industries within the country. During the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 in Islamabad, the prime minister emphasized the need to shift from exporting raw minerals to adding value and developing industries. He urged investors to "mine in Pakistan, process in Pakistan, manufacture in Pakistan, and then export to the rest of the world."

Pakistan aims to establish refineries, smelters, cable and conductor factories, and other industries to add value to its mineral wealth. The Reko Diq project, one of the world's largest untapped copper and gold deposits, is currently being developed. Production is expected to begin in 2028.

PM Shehbaz praised Barrick's ongoing confidence in Pakistan and cited Goldman Sachs' prediction that the country could become the world's sixth-largest economy by 2075. However, he expressed optimism that this could be achieved before 2050. He stressed that investors should expect a level playing field, transparent rules, quick decision-making, consistent policies, and strong institutions.

To facilitate investment, the government is streamlining procedures, reducing bureaucratic delays, and ensuring complete transparency in licensing and contract awarding. The National Mineral Data Cell and digitization of geological records will enable investors to assess the mineral wealth beneath the surface before making investments.

The prime minister assured the government's commitment to providing all necessary support and protection for investors, their manpower, assets, and supply routes. He also invited investors to address any bureaucratic delays or procedural issues directly, assuring prompt resolution.

Highlighting Pakistan's human resource potential, the prime minister emphasized that the country's true wealth lies in its young population. He described Pakistan's youth as educated, resilient, and capable of turning the nation's natural resources into progress and prosperity. He urged investors to establish training centers, promote technology transfer, and support local suppliers to provide opportunities for local youth.

PM Shehbaz stressed that every mining investment must create local jobs, businesses, and opportunities for local contractors, schools, clinics, clean drinking water, and improved living conditions for communities. The government will work with provincial governments and investors to ensure that people living near mining sites benefit directly from these economic activities.

Development and environmental protection must go hand in hand, the prime minister emphasized. Pakistan will pursue responsible mining in accordance with international standards, utilizing advanced technology while safeguarding water resources, workers' health and safety, and the environment. The federal government, provincial governments, and national institutions stand firmly by investors' sides throughout the process.