Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 opens in Islamabad

On November 12, 2026, international investors and government officials gathered in Islamabad for the opening of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, as reported by [The Diplomat].

The two-day event brings executives from global mining firms together with financial institutions to examine next-generation mining projects and active license discoveries.

Pakistan Aims for Long-Term Investment

Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir told attendees on November 13, 2026, that the country aims to become a competitive destination for long-term mineral investment, according to [Radio Pakistan].

Munir said that all possible measures are underway to secure the entire mining ecosystem. He emphasized that mineral development must benefit local communities and urged investors to move from raw exports to value-added growth.

“Mine in Pakistan, process in Pakistan, manufacture in Pakistan, and then export to the rest of the world,” PM Shehbaz told the forum, describing the strategy as a win-win partnership.

Sharif said that the government is simplifying procedures, cutting delays, and eliminating red tape to ensure complete transparency in awarding licenses and contracts.

Balochistan and Punjab mineral deposits offer economic benefits

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar pointed to copper and gold potential along the Tethyan mineral belt in Balochistan, alongside deposits of iron ore, chromite, coal, rock salt, marble, and gemstones, as reported by [Gulf News].

Dar cited the Reko Diq copper-gold project—developed by Barrick Gold—as an example of how international investment and provincial participation can generate long-term economic benefits.

In Punjab, Chief Maryam Nawaz reported placer gold discoveries in the province's rivers and iron ore deposits in Chiniot estimated at 261.5 million tonnes. Nawaz added that Punjab’s mines and minerals department increased its revenue from approximately 10 billion rupees to 40 billion rupees over the past two and a half years.

Private sector entities are also entering the market. Ivanhoe Atlantic has targeted Pakistani copper through a deal with Mari Energies, according to [Mining.com].

What is the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 focus?

What is the primary focus of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026?

The forum focuses on showcasing the country’s vast mineral resources—ranging from coal and salt to gold and critical minerals—to attract international investment and establish predictable, investor-friendly policies, according to [Radio Pakistan].

Which international mining project was highlighted during the discussions?

Speakers highlighted the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Balochistan as a prime example of foreign direct investment, technology transfer, and local employment working together, as reported by [Gulf News].

What specific mineral finds were reported in Punjab?

Punjab Chief Maryam Nawaz announced the discovery of placer gold in Punjab rivers and estimated deposits of 261.5 million tonnes of iron ore in Chiniot.