Balochistan, with its mineral-rich areas like Saindak and Reko Diq, is a treasure trove of copper and gold reserves. These untapped resources hold immense potential for transforming Pakistan’s economy. Reko Diq, home to one of the world’s largest copper and gold deposits, is estimated to contain 12.3 million tons of copper and 20.9 million ounces of gold in both indicated and estimated reserves. This site alone could yield 200,000 tons of copper and 250,000 ounces of gold annually for the next five decades, providing a steady stream of revenue for Pakistan. Meanwhile, the Saindak deposits offer a further 1.69 million tons of copper, 2.24 million ounces of gold, and 2.49 million ounces of silver. Such resources, if properly harnessed, can significantly reduce Pakistan’s dependence on copper imports, which amounted to over USD 10 million in 2020, and turn the nation into a major exporter of these valuable minerals.
At the core of this opportunity lies the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), a key initiative aimed at streamlining the utilization of the mineral sector to boost Pakistan’s economy. The SIFC provides the framework needed to capitalize on the vast reserves buried beneath Pakistan’s soil, particularly in Balochistan and the Western areas that lie along the Tythian magmatic arc—the world’s largest copper and gold depository, which stretches from Balochistan up to the Himalayas. By focusing on this sector, Pakistan has the potential not only to improve its fiscal health but also to create jobs, enhance local development, and secure long-term economic stability.
For decades, the rich mineral deposits of Balochistan have remained underexploited, largely due to a lack of infrastructure and investment. However, with the SIFC’s strategic oversight and renewed interest from both domestic and foreign investors, now is the time to turn this natural wealth into tangible economic growth. Pakistan’s mining sector, especially in regions like Balochistan, can become a cornerstone of national prosperity if given the right attention and resources. As the world turns its gaze towards more sustainable and diversified economic models, it is crucial that Pakistan leverages its mineral wealth not just to reduce imports but to emerge as a global player in the copper and gold markets.
The road to achieving this, however, requires more than just investment. It demands robust policy-making, improved infrastructure, and a clear vision for sustainable mining practices. With the right approach, Pakistan can unlock the full potential of its mineral resources, turning Balochistan’s copper and gold deposits into a beacon of economic growth and resilience for the entire nation.
