Islamabad (Commerce Desk): Foreign investors have expressed keen interest in Pakistan’s mineral projects at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, with global investors turning their attention towards Islamabad.
A large number of foreign delegates also attended the second day of the forum. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir were also present on the occasion. Representatives from various countries praised Pakistan’s mineral resources and investment potential in their addresses.
Promoting Public-Private Partnerships in the Mineral Sector: Ali Pervaiz Malik
Addressing the forum, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said roads and communication links were being improved to promote the development of the mineral sector. Infrastructure development from Chagai to Gwadar was underway, while cooperation between the public and private sectors was being expanded to ensure better utilisation of mineral resources.
He said the road network was being strengthened to provide easier access to mineral reserves. Private sector participation would accelerate development in the sector, while additional facilities were being provided to investors.
He added that special attention was being given to digital mapping to accurately identify mineral resources, which would help identify investment opportunities more effectively.
Providing Every Possible Facility to Investors: Jam Kamal
Commerce Minister Jam Kamal said Pakistan had vast investment potential in the mineral sector and the government was providing every possible facility to foreign investors.
He said details of trade relations with more than 90 countries were available on an online portal, where new businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises could benefit from tariff concessions under preferential trade agreements.
According to him, importers could use the portal to obtain information about specific trade codes for goods and available duty exemptions. Simplifying the taxation and duty system would reduce the import costs of technology and various products, helping improve the competitiveness of Pakistani businesses.
Jam Kamal said critical minerals had become essential for modern technology. Their importance was increasing in artificial intelligence, electricity generation, data centres and renewable energy sectors. Similarly, solar panels, jet engines, defence equipment and the medical sector also depended on these minerals.
He stressed that cooperation and coordination among all stakeholders in the mineral sector were essential. After mining, it was important to complete the processes of smelting, refining and adding value to raw minerals. He said the entire production chain would have to be developed to obtain rare earth elements.