Pakistan, China explore mineral trade, investment at virtual forum

In what appears to be a push to deepen bilateral investment and cooperation in the sector, Pakistan and China held a virtual business forum on mineral trade. The event, organised by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) in collaboration with Trade & Investment Counsellor (TIC) in Guangzhou, drew 45 industry leaders from both countries.

The session highlighted Pakistan’s mineral wealth, including copper, gold, chromite and iron ore, while stressing the need for value addition and infrastructure improvements to boost exports. Officials and industry experts outlined investment opportunities in projects such as the Saindak Copper Mine and the Tethyan Belt reserves.

China, a key consumer of raw materials, expressed strong interest in importing Pakistani minerals. TIC Guangzhou representative Muhammad Imran underscored the growing Chinese demand for iron ore, pyrite and copper concentrates, while industry leaders from both sides discussed streamlining trade processes.

A key announcement included the launch of a Minerals Investment Pavilion at the Health, Engineering & Minerals Show in Lahore this April, aiming to facilitate direct engagement between Pakistani exporters and Chinese buyers.

TDAP officials reiterated the need for enhanced trade mechanisms and investment-friendly policies to bolster Pakistan’s mineral exports and reduce reliance on raw material exports. The forum marks a step towards strengthening Pakistan’s position in the global mineral supply chain while deepening economic ties with China.