Wood Mackenzie explores investment opportunities

Minister advocates investor-friendly policies, lower duties on mining equipment

ISLAMABAD:

A delegation of Wood Mackenzie called on Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan to discuss investment opportunities, international partnerships and preparations for the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum.

During the meeting, the minister highlighted Pakistan's vast and largely untapped mineral potential, particularly in copper, antimony, iron ore, gemstones and other critical minerals. He emphasised that development of the mining sector could significantly boost exports, attract foreign investment and create new opportunities for industrial growth.

Khan stressed the importance of investor-friendly policies, competitive taxes, reduced import duties on specialised mining equipment and greater coordination between federal and provincial governments to facilitate international investors.

The minister particularly underscored the need for connecting small-scale Pakistani miners and existing leaseholders with major international mining companies through joint ventures, technology transfer and financial partnerships.

Highlighting the Ministry of Commerce's role, he said tariff rationalisation, trade agreements, improved market access and development of professional services could help Pakistan become a competitive destination for mineral investment.

The minister also advocated a phased approach to value addition, stressing that commercially viable mining operations would pave the way for future investment in copper smelting, refining and downstream manufacturing. He proposed stronger international collaboration across the mineral value chain, enabling countries to combine their strengths in exploration, processing, technology and trade.

The Wood Mackenzie delegation discussed international investment trends, fiscal competitiveness and opportunities for developing Pakistan's mining services ecosystem. The delegation also exchanged views on preparations for the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum and the country's potential to attract leading international mining investors.

The federal minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to transforming its mineral wealth into sustainable economic growth.