Pakistan Hosts Minerals Forum to Attract Global Mining Investment

The Government of Pakistan hosted the two-day Minerals Investment Forum 2026 in Islamabad to attract global capital into its mineral sector. Attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, the event focused on strategic minerals essential for defense, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence.

During the forum, Ivanhoe Mines and Mari Minerals signed an agreement to explore gold and copper deposits in the Chagai district. John Thornton, Chairman of Barrick Mining Corporation, reaffirmed the company's long-term commitment to the Reko Diq project. Other firms, including Trafigura, Weir, and Calik Holding, expressed interest in projects involving barite and zinc.

To facilitate these investments, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced plans for digital mapping, uniform fiscal terms for all companies, and improved road connectivity between Chagai and Gwadar. Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan detailed available tariff concessions and the launch of an online trade portal. Simultaneously, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reported that surveys are underway to determine the extent of gold reserves within the rivers of Punjab province.