Pakistan’s Copper Export Potential Strengthens Under Pak-China Cooperation: PCJCCI

International News Report
By Muhammad Shahzad — Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Pakistan’s copper export potential is set to expand further under ongoing Pak-China cooperation, according to the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI). China sources nearly 51% of its global copper imports from international markets, including Pakistan, highlighting opportunities for increased trade in 2025.

Nazir Hussain, President PCJCCI, emphasized the importance of modern technology and advanced mining practices to boost copper trade with China. He noted that Pakistan’s copper exports have grown significantly over the past decade—from USD 106 million in earlier years to USD 600 million shipped to China by 2021. The upward trajectory is expected to continue this year.

Hussain highlighted the pivotal role of Chinese companies, particularly the Metallurgical Corporation of China (MCC), which has contributed significantly since the Saindak Copper-Gold Project began in 1995. The Saindak project processes 12,800 tons of copper ore daily, producing nearly 13,000 tons of copper blister annually.

Brig. Mansoor Saeed Sheikh (Retd.), Senior Vice President PCJCCI, pointed to the Reko Diq Project, which is progressing toward full-scale operations in 2025 and is expected to be transformative for Pakistan’s copper sector. He noted that regions like Chitral, despite holding substantial copper reserves, remain underutilized due to outdated mining methods and lack of modern equipment.

Zafar Iqbal, Vice President PCJCCI, detailed the economic impact of the Saindak Project, which has contributed over USD 468 million in taxes, fees, and profits, generated 1,900 jobs, and procured USD 1.1 billion in goods and services, benefiting thousands of local families. He stressed the importance of managerial and technical training for Pakistani workers to maximize long-term benefits from these projects.

Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General PCJCCI, highlighted that the ongoing Reko Diq expansion presents opportunities similar to Saindak. He urged the government to expedite international tenders and collaborations to fully realize Pakistan’s copper export potential, particularly with China, further strengthening bilateral trade and industrial cooperation.

The PCJCCI officials emphasized that enhanced technology, skilled manpower, and strategic partnerships are key to transforming Pakistan into a leading player in the global copper market while fostering economic growth and employment.