Pakistan is endowed with abundant natural resources, including about 910 km-long coastal belt, strategic ports, four distinct seasons, diverse fruits and crops, some of the world’s highest peaks, and a breathtaking landscape.

It boasts captivating beaches, religious heritage sites and highly valuable mineral and metal deposits.

However, a significant portion of these resources remains untapped, and those that are utilized are largely exported in raw form, limiting their economic impact.

In fact we are wealthy poor nation due to bad governance.

A robust infrastructure is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of Pakistan’s mining and mineral sector.

Despite possessing an estimated $5 trillion worth of untapped mineral wealth, the industry contributes a mere 2.5% to the national GDP, with an annual growth rate of just 3.04%, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.

To optimize economic returns and reduce reliance on raw material exports, strategic infrastructure enhancements are imperative, including mineral processing facilities, regulatory reforms, logistical development, and digital transformation.

Pakistan’s mining sector remains underdeveloped due to its predominant reliance on raw mineral exports, leading to substantial revenue losses.

According to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), 90% of the country’s gemstones are exported in unprocessed form, resulting in a forfeiture of nearly 70% of potential earnings.

Establishing modern processing units with advanced refining and smelting facilities is critical for maximizing resource utilization.

Investment in precision machinery for gemstones, marble and granite will significantly enhance export competitiveness, with the marble and granite industry already contributing........

© Pakistan Observer