Pakistan Find Major Gold, Copper, and Silver Reserves in Balochistan
Pakistan has made a major breakthrough in mineral exploration with the discovery of large deposits of gold, copper, and silver in the Chagai district of Balochistan. The announcement was made at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir.
This discovery comes from efforts by National Resources Limited (NRL), a private exploration company that started its operations in October 2023. So far, NRL has identified 16 promising mining sites across a 500 square kilometer area. Initial test drilling in the Tang Kore region showed copper levels ranging from 0.23% to 0.48%, gold content between 0.09 and 0.14 grams per tonne, and silver between 1.3 and 6.21 grams per tonne.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that this project could be a turning point for Pakistan’s economy. By using these resources for local processing and exports, Pakistan could attract foreign investment and reduce financial pressure. He highlighted the potential for the country to rise in global economic rankings if managed properly.
More drilling is scheduled for May 2025, with a comprehensive technical report expected by the end of the year. NRL is supported by a $100 million investment and is seeking more exploration licenses. It has also joined hands with the Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC) to expand its reach.
NRL is also focused on supporting local communities. Over 90% of its workforce comes from nearby areas, and the company is contributing to public services such as clean drinking water, education, and healthcare.
Pakistan’s Economy: How the Mineral Discovery Could Help
| Category | Current Situation (2025) | Potential Impact by 2030 |
|---|---|---|
| GDP | $341.3 billion (as of June 2023) | May grow to $500–600 billion with exports and investment |
| Global GDP Rank | 44th place globally | Could move up to 30th–35th, ahead of Vietnam, Bangladesh |
| National Debt | $264.4 billion (2024), projected $411.29 billion (2029) | Might reduce to $180–200 billion through new revenues |
| Debt-to-GDP Ratio | 65.2% (as of June 2024) | Expected to drop to 40–45% with stronger economy |
| Economic Health | 0% GDP growth (2023), 23.4% inflation, low imports | Projected 5–7% growth, 6–8% inflation, and better exports |
| Foreign Reserves | Critically low, affecting imports | Could rise by $10–16 billion, lowering dependence on loans |
If used wisely, this mineral discovery could be a game-changer for Pakistan’s economy and help it achieve long-term financial stability.
