KARACHI: Pakistan’s mining sector could see its revenues triple to $6–8 billion annually by 2030 if the country harnesses its vast mineral wealth, industry leaders said at the Natural Resources and Energy Summit 2025 on Wednesday.
Delivering the keynote, Shamsuddin A. Shaikh, CEO of National Resources Ltd (NRL), noted that Pakistan contributes only 0.15 percent to global mineral output and around 2–3 percent to its own GDP, despite being located on one of the richest mineral belts in the world. He said of the 92 known minerals in the country, nearly 90 percent remain unexplored.
Shaikh warned that delaying action would allow foreign companies to take the lead, urging Pakistani investors to form joint ventures and partnerships to capture opportunities. “This is the time for local companies to create wealth and jobs at home,” he stressed.
He outlined key projects already in motion, including Reko Diq, which is projected to generate $4–5 billion annually, Siah Diq ($1–2 billion), Thar coal expansion ($200 million), and barite, lead, and zinc projects ($100 million). Additional copper and gold exploration in Balochistan’s Chagai region, he said, could bring in $5–10 billion more annually after 2030.
Highlighting the social dimension, Shaikh said responsible mining could transform communities through job creation, better housing, and improved access to healthcare and education. “Mining is not just about minerals—it’s about uplifting lives and eradicating poverty,” he remarked.
Experts at the summit cautioned that the sector’s growth depends on stronger governance, regulatory consistency, and skilled human resources. They also pointed to climate challenges and policy uncertainty as risks, stressing that technology and innovation, including artificial intelligence, will be key enablers.
Bringing together policymakers, investors, and international experts, the summit positioned mining and energy as critical to Pakistan’s economic future. Concluding his address, Shaikh urged decisive action from both government and industry: “This is Pakistan’s moment. With the right policies and investments, mining can become a $10 billion-plus industry, driving growth, stability, and national pride.