Pakistan has 92 discovered minerals, reserves valued at $8 trillion: Report

Pakistan has discovered 92 different minerals with 52 currently being extracted on a commercial basis, according to a report attributed to the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL).

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has discovered 92 different minerals with 52 currently being extracted on a commercial basis, according to a report attributed to the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL). The country’s mineral reserves are estimated to be worth approximately $8 trillion, highlighting the potential of the mining sector to contribute to economic growth.

Despite its extensive mineral resources the sector currently accounts for less than 3% of Pakistan’s gross domestic product (GDP) according to the report.

The report suggests that improved policies increased investment modern technology and more effective exploration could help Pakistan expand its mineral exports. Current mineral exports are estimated at around $3 billion annually with the potential to reach $8 billion a year if the sector is developed effectively.

The Reko Diq project in Balochistan has been identified as a major investment initiative in Pakistan’s mining industry. The project is expected to strengthen the country’s position in the international minerals market and attract further investment.

According to the report production from the project’s first phase is expected to begin by the end of 2028.

The planned annual output is approximately 240,000 tonnes of copper and 297,000 ounces of gold. These projected figures highlight the project’s potential importance for Pakistan’s mining and export sectors.

The report also highlights agreements between Pakistan and US-based US Strategic Metals concerning the development of critical minerals.

These agreements are presented as part of efforts to encourage international investment and introduce advanced technology into Pakistan’s mineral industry. Further development of such partnerships could support exploration processing and the commercial use of mineral resources.

Pakistan is also seeking to attract international investors through initiatives such as the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026.

According to the report effective policies modern technology and foreign investment could help the country make better use of its mineral resources.

Expanding the sector could create opportunities to increase exports reduce pressure on imports and support economic activity. However, turning estimated mineral wealth into actual economic gains will depend on successful exploration infrastructure development investment and the ability to bring projects into commercial production.

The report presents Pakistan’s mineral resources as a significant economic opportunity while the scale of the benefits will depend on how effectively these resources are developed.