Karachi, September 18, 2025 — Pakistan’s mining sector has the potential to expand its annual revenues from the current $2 billion to $6–8 billion by 2030, provided the country accelerates exploration and investment. This was the key message delivered at the Natural Resources & Energy Summit 2025, held at the Pearl Continental Hotel, Karachi.
In his keynote address, Shamsuddin A. Shaikh, CEO of National Resources Limited (NRL), emphasized the urgency of unlocking Pakistan’s untapped mineral reserves.
“Pakistan’s mining sector contributes barely 0.15% of global mineral output and just 2–3% of national GDP, yet we sit on one of the world’s richest mineral belts. Out of 92 known minerals, nearly 90% remain unexplored,” Shaikh said.
🔗 Related: Pakistan Power Generation Hits FY26 High in August at 14,218 GWh
He noted that if Pakistan fails to mobilize quickly, foreign players will dominate the field. Instead, local companies and investors must lead through joint ventures and partnerships, creating jobs, wealth, and socio-economic uplift.
Major Projects Underway
Shaikh highlighted game-changing initiatives already in motion:
- Reko Diq: Estimated revenue potential of $4–5 billion annually.
- Siah Diq: $1–2 billion annually.
- Thar coal expansion: Around $200 million annually.
- Barite, lead, and zinc projects: $100 million annually.
Collectively, these projects could add several billion dollars in annual revenue within five years. Looking beyond 2030, copper and gold exploration in the Chagai region could contribute an additional $5–10 billion annually.
🔗 Related: Govt May Hike Petrol and Diesel Prices from Sept 16
Social Impact of Mining
Shaikh underscored that responsible mining goes beyond financial gain.
“Mining is about building communities, eradicating poverty, and transforming neglected areas into engines of growth,” he said.
Speakers also stressed the social and economic benefits of mining, from job creation to better housing, education, and healthcare in rural regions.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
Other experts at the summit reinforced this vision:
- Hassan R. Muhammadi, Founder & Director of Fidelity Insurance Brokers, said the mining and energy sectors can become “engines of growth that create jobs, enhance energy security, and bring in foreign exchange.”
- Khurram Ali Khan, CEO of Fidelity Insurance Brokers, highlighted the insurance industry’s role in sustaining billion-dollar projects.
- Muhammad Sohail Tabba, Chairman of Lucky Cement and Lucky Core Industries, noted the immense untapped potential in rural provinces, stressing the need for parallel investments in education and human capital.
Challenges and Reforms
Speakers cautioned that inconsistent policies, weak regulation, and climate risks could undermine the sector’s potential. They emphasized the need for governance reforms, modern technologies, and innovative risk solutions to attract sustainable investment.
🔗 Related: Shanghai Electric Officially Withdraws from $1.7bn K-Electric Acquisition Deal
Summit Highlights
Themed “Powering Progress: Risk, Resilience, and Innovation in Energy and Emerging Resource Sectors”, the summit brought together policymakers, investors, CEOs, insurers, and international experts. Discussions revolved around how mining and energy can become central pillars of Pakistan’s economic transformation, supported by cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The Road Ahead
As Pakistan stands on the brink of a new “minerals rush”, Shaikh urged decisive action:
“This is Pakistan’s moment. If we align policies, mobilize investors, and responsibly unlock our mineral wealth, mining can become a $10 billion-plus industry that powers growth, stability, and national pride.”
🔗 Related: HUBCO Green Expands EV Charging Network Across Major Pakistani Cities
