The Oil and Gas Development Company Ltd (OGDCL) report has said that Pakistan has the potential to emerge as a major global destination for critical minerals, with its mineral reserves estimated at $8 trillion.
The report stated that 92 minerals have been discovered in the country, of which 52 are currently being extracted on a commercial basis. Despite this potential, the mineral sector contributes less than 3% to Pakistan’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Effective policies could increase mineral exports from $3 billion to $8 billion, the report suggests. The Reko Diq project, described as Pakistan’s largest foreign investment venture, is expected to begin production from its first phase by the end of 2028.
The project is projected to produce 240,000 tons of copper and 297,000 ounces of gold annually. Meanwhile, Pakistan has signed agreements with US-based company US Strategic Metals for the development of critical minerals.
Pakistan’s mineral potential will also be presented to international investors at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, scheduled for November 12 and 13 at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad.
