Islamabad: Pakistan and China are entering a new phase of economic cooperation under CPEC 2.0, with a focus on mineral development to boost industrialization, exports, and sustainable growth, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said on Wednesday.
Addressing the China-Pakistan Mineral Cooperation Forum, the minister said Gwadar would serve as the main gateway to connect Pakistan’s mineral-rich regions with regional and global markets. “CPEC Phase-II is shifting from infrastructure-centric projects to value-added, export-oriented initiatives,” he added.
Highlighting Pakistan’s untapped mineral potential, Iqbal said the country hosts around 92 known minerals, with 52 currently under extraction from nearly 5,000 operational mines. However, mineral exports contribute only 2–3% to GDP due to limited value addition, with over 90% of exports being raw or semi-processed.
The minister emphasized opportunities in sectors such as marble, granite, copper, gold, and rare earths, urging Chinese enterprises to invest in modern extraction, processing, and refining technologies. “With improved governance, technology, and strategic partnerships, Pakistan’s mineral exports could rise to $6–8 billion annually, support GDP growth of 6%, and create more than 350,000 jobs,” he said.
Existing projects, including Saindak Copper-Gold, Duddar Lead-Zinc, and Thar Coal, illustrate the potential of mineral-based industrialization. The government is also promoting development along corridors such as Naukundi–Mashkhel–Turbat–Gwadar to directly link Balochistan’s mineral belt with the port city.
Iqbal underscored the importance of responsible and inclusive development, ensuring that mining benefits resource-rich regions such as Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through employment, skills development, infrastructure, and social services.
He also highlighted that strong environmental standards and adherence to ESG principles are essential for sustainable growth and investor confidence.
The minister said Pakistan has strengthened institutional coordination through the Special Investment Facilitation Council to provide fast-track approvals, policy consistency, and secure conditions for Chinese investments.
“With China as our trusted partner, Pakistan is determined to convert its mineral wealth into industrial strength, export competitiveness, and shared prosperity,” Iqbal concluded.
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