Pakistan has made significant advances in mineral exploration, with the discovery of substantial antimony reserves in Baluchistan and the confirmation of gold, copper, nickel and cobalt deposits in Gilgit-Baltistan.
According to Express News, the discovery of the antimony in Baluchistan is part of an important commercial project carried out by Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC).
The two companies have formed a 50:50 joint company, which is expected to be officially announced in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, scheduled for April 8 to 9.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, significant progress has been made in obtaining ten mineral blocks, where surveys have confirmed the presence of gold, copper, nickel and cobalt.
Meanwhile, efforts to explore mineral resources in Chinint, Punjab, are ongoing, with OGDCL and the Department of Minerals dedicated to discussions to accelerate the process.
Pakistan is also exploring options to use Oman’s advanced facilities to refine the antimony. In addition, measures are being taken to align mining education with global standards to support the progress of the sector.
To further develop the mineral sector, OGDCL is strengthening its collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and universities. In addition, preparations for remote sensing and geological surveys are being carried out to perform an exhaustive analysis of the recently discovered antimony reserves of Baluchistan.
Experts believe that these discoveries could play a crucial role in impulse from Pakistan’s economy and improve the country’s mining industry.
