PM Sharif calls for investment in Pakistan’s trillion dollar Mineral resources as he addressed the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25) taking place in Islamabad.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday invited both local and foreign investors to explore Pakistan’s vast natural resources, valued at trillions of dollars, as part of an effort to foster economic development. Addressing the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25) in Islamabad, he emphasized that tapping into these resources could help alleviate the country’s financial dependency on loans.
The Prime Minister highlighted the immense potential of Pakistan’s mineral resources in various regions of the country and strongly emphasized that the export of raw materials would not be permitted. Instead, he advocated for exporting finished and semi-finished products, which would create a mutually beneficial situation for both Pakistan and its investors. He also proposed that agreements should involve technology transfers to Pakistan over time.
Prime Minister Sharif encouraged entrepreneurs to form joint partnerships to establish vocational training centers aimed at teaching modern skills to the youth. He assured that both federal and provincial governments, along with other institutions, would collaborate to transform Pakistan into a leading global player.
The PMIF25, taking place in Islamabad, has attracted around 2,000 participants, including 300 foreign representatives, to showcase Pakistan’s rich mineral potential. The forum is highlighting the nation’s 600,000-square-kilometer mineral-rich terrain, with notable participants from countries like Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, China, and the United States, as well as representatives from the Asian Development Bank and various mining companies.
Despite its significant mineral potential, Pakistan’s mineral sector currently contributes only 3.2% to its GDP, with a minuscule share of global exports. However, with increased exploration, foreign investment, and infrastructure development, the sector is expected to experience substantial growth.
The forum will feature the launch of the National Minerals Harmonization Framework 2025 by the federal government, designed to attract investment into the mineral sector. The event will also see the representation of the United States, through Eric Meyer, to advance US interests in the sector.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan’s strategic position to become a global mining powerhouse due to its immense geological wealth. He pointed out the country’s significant reserves, including rare earth elements and gemstones like peridote and emerald, positioning Pakistan’s resource corridor as a transformative player in global supply chains.
The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the government’s commitment to developing the mining sector through progressive reforms and investment-focused initiatives, aiming to establish a strong ecosystem for long-term success.
Federal Minister for Power Ali Pervaiz Malik addressed the consistent government efforts that have led to economic stability in Pakistan. He mentioned ongoing legislative reforms aimed at easing the investment process, particularly for the mineral sector, and noted the importance of collaboration with provincial governments to support growth in the sector.
Malik highlighted the efforts of institutions like the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in attracting investments and emphasized the significant role of Balochistan in this initiative. He reiterated the government’s commitment to maximizing Pakistan’s mineral resources and acknowledged the increasing international confidence in the sector, as reflected in the participation of foreign dignitaries.
Commerce Minister Jam Kamal pointed out that Pakistan’s vast mineral resources will likely attract considerable investment from both local and foreign companies. He specifically highlighted Balochistan’s mineral potential and assured investors that the government is addressing security concerns to restore confidence in the sector, emphasizing the long-term nature of investments in mining.
The Saudi Vice Minister for Minerals expressed interest in exploring strategic partnerships with Pakistan for developing the country’s mineral sector. He acknowledged Pakistan’s strong mineral potential and signaled his country’s willingness to cooperate in future mining ventures.
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