The mineral sector remains technology-driven and investment-intensive
Pakistan’s mineral sector has the potential to contribute 3-5% in our GDP, however, at present it has a meagre contribution of less than 1%. How can we do better? Notwithstanding current development level of Mineral sector, Pakistan retains immense opportunities for exploiting its mineral potential. There are well-known examples internationally, wherein expertise and capital has energized mineral resource exploration and development. Pakistan can adapt similar models to exploit mineral potential for economic prosperity and promoting entrepreneurship in downstream industries including steel, fertilisers, chemical, pharmaceutical, ceramic, construction, energy and ornaments. Pakistan’s unique geography at the confluence of East and West allows it to form part of global supply chains How we succeed? Reconstitution of Reko Diq Project with a concerted and unified efforts of all government institutions stands as a shining exemplar of hope and national resolve. This particular venture in collaboration with Barrick Gold, an industry leader of global stature, has boosted confidence of investors (KSA, UAE, Qatar and China) in mineral sector of Pakistan. Another stellar example of Public-Private partnership for energy exploration is Thar Coal which not only holds the key to Pakistan’s energy security but is contributing towards socio-economic development of local populace.
