Pakistan’s vast mineral resources have once again come under the global spotlight, with reports highlighting the country’s estimated $8 trillion in minerals, including copper, lithium, cobalt, gold, and antimony.
Last year alone, Pakistan extracted around 22,000 tonnes of copper from the Muhammad Khel Copper Mine, which was exported to China, demonstrating the commercial potential of these deposits.
The significance of these resources has also drawn attention from the United States. Analysts note that Pakistan’s mineral wealth could become a cornerstone for deeper US-Pakistan cooperation, as securing critical minerals has become a strategic priority for global powers, including the US under former President Donald Trump.
These minerals are essential for advanced technologies, renewable energy, and electric vehicles, making Pakistan a potentially key player in the global supply chain.
Despite the opportunity, tapping into this wealth faces several challenges. Many of the richest deposits are located in border regions that have experienced decades-long insurgencies, posing security risks and complicating large-scale mining operations. Infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and investment security are additional obstacles that need careful planning and government oversight.
Experts believe that with proper governance, foreign investment, and strategic partnerships, Pakistan could transform its mineral sector into a major driver of economic growth, exports, and job creation.
The development of these resources not only promises to boost the local economy but could also strengthen Pakistan’s strategic partnerships internationally.
Overall, Pakistan’s untapped mineral wealth represents a long-term economic and geopolitical opportunity, provided that challenges related to security, infrastructure, and sustainable extraction are addressed efficiently.
