Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, announced that the country possesses mineral resources worth trillions of dollars—a potential economic game-changer that, if harnessed effectively, could free Pakistan from its dependence on IMF loans and bring down the towering foreign debt.

Held over two days, the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 aims to attract global mining and investment giants to explore and tap into Pakistan’s vast natural reserves, with over 300 foreign delegates in attendance. The forum highlights not only the mining potential but also a new policy direction that emphasizes value-added exports, technology transfer, and local economic integration.

A Vision to End IMF Dependency

In his speech, PM Shehbaz Sharif said, "Pakistan would say goodbye to institutions like the IMF" if the country is able to properly harvest its mineral wealth. He noted that Pakistan's mineral reserves, long overlooked or underutilized, have the potential to turn the economic tide and ensure self-reliance.

These remarks come as Pakistan continues to grapple with mounting foreign debt and repeated IMF bailout programs that have forced the country to impose fiscal austerity measures, impacting growth and public welfare. By unlocking the value of these resources, the prime minister envisions a long-term shift towards financial independence.

No More Raw Material Exports

One of the boldest announcements made by PM Sharif during the forum was the ban on raw mineral exports. He stated clearly that Pakistan will no longer allow the outflow of its unprocessed natural resources. Instead, investors will be required to:

• Set up downstream industries within Pakistan,

• Convert raw materials into finished products, and

• Export only value-added goods.

This step is aimed at maximizing economic value, creating jobs, and ensuring that the local economy benefits from its own natural wealth rather than just serving as a supplier of cheap raw materials to richer economies.

Mandatory Technology Transfer for Investors

Sharif also introduced a progressive investment framework under which foreign companies investing in Pakistan's mining sector will need to bring in new technologies and transfer technical know-how to local partners over time.

This policy ensures that Pakistan develops internal capabilities in the mining and processing sectors. Long-term strategic partnerships, instead of short-term extraction deals, are the cornerstone of this new approach.

He emphasized that agreements would be structured to ensure mutual benefit — not just profits for investors but technology uplift and economic growth for Pakistan.

A Unified National Effort is Required

Calling for a coordinated national approach, PM Sharif urged the federal and provincial governments, as well as the military establishment, to work together for the success of this economic transition.

“If we are able to put our act together, we can turn the corner within no time,” he said, underlining the urgency and strategic importance of acting swiftly and cohesively.

Pakistan's Strategic Advantage in Mining

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, also present at the event, called Pakistan “strategically positioned to emerge as a global mining powerhouse.” He emphasized the importance of the government’s mining policy reforms, which include:

• Investor-centric regulations

• Transparent licensing processes

• Tax incentives for local value addition

• Public-private partnerships

According to Dar, these reforms form the foundation of a robust mining ecosystem that is not only globally competitive but also equitable for all stakeholders.

Global Participation at the Minerals Forum

The two-day forum saw participation from representatives of:

• Saudi Arabia,

• Azerbaijan,

• United States (US State Department and Exim Bank),

• China,

• Asian Development Bank (ADB),

• Mining executives from Denmark, Finland, Kenya, and the UK.

These delegations expressed strong interest in Pakistan’s mineral offerings, particularly in:

• Copper,

• Gold,

• Rare Earth Elements,

• Coal,

• Lithium, and

• Gemstones.

The government of Pakistan showcased a mineral-rich terrain spanning nearly 600,000 square kilometers, highlighting unexplored and under-explored areas ripe for investment.

Expected Outcomes of the Forum

During the forum, it is expected that multiple MoUs and investment agreements will be signed, opening new avenues for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector.

Currently, the mining sector contributes only 3.2% to Pakistan’s GDP, with exports representing just 0.1% of global mineral trade. With the policies outlined, Pakistan aims to:

• Raise the sector's GDP contribution,

• Improve export performance, and

• Attract billions in foreign capital.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the enthusiasm, analysts warn of potential roadblocks including:

• Security concerns in some mineral-rich regions,

• Regulatory red tape,

• Bureaucratic hurdles, and

• Coordination issues between federal and provincial authorities.

However, with strong political backing, a clear reform vision, and global support, Pakistan has a real chance to redefine its economic trajectory.

Conclusion

Pakistan's ambitious move to leverage its trillion-dollar mineral wealth signals a major shift in the country’s economic strategy. If executed effectively, it could:

• End Pakistan’s dependency on IMF loans,

• Strengthen local industries,

• Boost employment, and

• Elevate Pakistan’s standing in global markets.

By focusing on value addition, technology transfer, and long-term partnerships, the government aims to not just extract wealth, but build a sustainable economic ecosystem for future generations.

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