Pakistan critical minerals are drawing global attention like never before. The country sits on an estimated $8 trillion in mineral reserves spread across 600,000 square kilometres. With the right investment and policy, experts say Pakistan could transform its economy through mining, exports, and new jobs.
Pakistan Critical Minerals: The Big Picture
Pakistan has 92 known minerals. Of these, 52 are already being used commercially. The minerals include copper, gold, chromite, lithium, and rare earth elements. These are in high demand worldwide because they are needed for electric vehicles, solar panels, and other clean energy technology.
The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA) says the mining sector currently adds less than 3 percent to GDP. But ICMA estimates that with better governance and security, annual mineral exports could jump from about $3 billion to $8 billion. GDP growth could also rise from around 3 percent to 6 percent.
Pakistan sits inside the Tethyan Metallogenic Belt. This is one of the world’s most important geological zones for copper and gold. That gives Pakistan a natural advantage in the global race for critical minerals.
Reko Diq: Pakistan’s Biggest Mining Project
The most important project right now is Reko Diq. It is located in Chagai district, Balochistan. It is one of the largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits in the world.
The project is a joint venture. Barrick Mining Corporation holds 50 percent. The Balochistan government holds 25 percent. Three federal state-owned companies share the remaining 25 percent.
In early 2025, Barrick published an updated feasibility study for the project. The study confirmed a 37-year mine life. Total capital investment is estimated at $8.83 billion.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 Production
The project has two phases. Phase 1 will need an estimated $5.6 to $6.0 billion in investment. It will process 45 million tonnes of ore each year. That means about 240,000 tonnes of copper and 297,000 ounces of gold per year. First production is expected by end of 2028.
Phase 2 is planned for 2034. It will double processing to 90 million tonnes per year. In its first 10 years, Phase 2 could produce 460,000 tonnes of copper and 520,000 ounces of gold annually.
Barrick estimates Reko Diq could generate $90 billion in operating cash flow and $70 billion in free cash flow over its mine life. First-year shipments are projected to bring in $2.8 billion in export value alone.
International Lenders Back Reko Diq
Global lenders have put together a financing package of over $2.6 billion for the project. Here is a quick breakdown.
- The Asian Development Bank approved $410 million in August 2025, including a $110 million guarantee for Balochistan’s equity stake.
- The World Bank and IFC approved a $700 million concessional loan in June 2025.
- The US Export-Import Bank approved $1.25 billion in December 2025. The US embassy said this could unlock up to $2 billion in American mining equipment exports and support around 13,500 jobs across both countries.
This level of international backing shows strong confidence in Pakistan’s mining sector.
Why Global Copper Demand Helps Pakistan
The timing is good for Pakistan. Global copper demand is forecast to grow 24 percent, reaching 42.7 million tonnes a year by 2035, according to Wood Mackenzie. This growth is driven by the global shift to electric vehicles and clean energy.
Pakistan critical minerals, especially copper and gold from Reko Diq, are well placed to meet this rising demand. The country can become a key supplier in global supply chains.
Government Focus on Mining Growth
Pakistan’s government is also pushing hard to grow the sector. The Prime Minister’s office has been actively promoting Reko Diq as a flagship project. A government press release confirmed high-level support for the project and its role in Pakistan’s economic future.
Officials say the goal is to build a full mining ecosystem. That means better exploration data, modern technology, stronger laws, environmental rules, and ties with global mining companies.
What This Means for Pakistan
Pakistan critical minerals could reshape the country’s economy over the next decade. Here is a simple summary of what is at stake.
- Up to $8 trillion in mineral wealth sitting underground.
- Reko Diq alone could bring in $90 billion in cash flow over 37 years.
- Annual mineral exports could more than double, from $3 billion to $8 billion.
- Tens of thousands of jobs could be created locally and internationally.
- GDP growth could nearly double with the right policies in place.
For a country that has long struggled with foreign exchange shortages, this is a real game-changer. Pakistan has the geology. Now it needs the governance, the infrastructure, and the investment to match.
With Reko Diq moving toward first production in 2028 and global demand for copper at a record high, Pakistan’s moment in the critical minerals race may finally be here.