Zahid Maqsood Sheikh
PUNJAB, one of Pakistan’s most resource-rich provinces, stands on the verge of a transformative opportunity. With iron and copper deposits in Chiniot valued at over eight billion dollars, world-renowned rock salt and the recently discovered gold reserves in the Attock region, Punjab possesses all the elements to become a regional mining powerhouse. Yet, despite its vast mineral potential, the province lacks a coordinated strategy to translate these resources into tangible economic strength. This is where Vision 2030 comes in.
In many ways, Punjab’s mineral wealth is underutilized, much like that of other resource-rich nations before they underwent transformation. Take Turkiye and Morocco, for example. Turkiye’s mining sector has grown its exports to over four billion dollars annually through a combination of consistent policies, government-industry collaboration and investment in technological innovations. Similarly, Morocco has successfully turned its phosphate reserves into a global success by focusing on value addition, research and strategic coordination. These examples provide a roadmap for Punjab, illustrating that success is achievable with the right policies in place. Building on Pakistan’s broader mineral development framework, I propose a practical approach tailored to Punjab’s needs. The province must quickly move toward establishing a Mining Innovation Hub for research and development, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) dedicated to mineral processing and an AI-powered compliance corridor to ensure transparency and efficiency in mining operations. Such initiatives can foster innovation, improve productivity and attract both local and international investments. Furthermore, improved connectivity through motorways and a young, skilled workforce offer an ideal foundation for this transformation.
Punjab’s strategic location and its potential for value-added mineral industries present an exciting opportunity to boost industrial growth. By processing minerals locally, rather than exporting raw material, the province can create thousands of new jobs, improve its balance of trade and contribute to Pakistan’s overall economic competitiveness. A forward-looking mineral policy, aligned with Vision 2030, can help Punjab emerge as a global supplier of refined copper, processed salts, engineered stone and gold-based products, diversifying exports and adding significant value to the local economy.
On June 4, 2025, I presented the Vision 2030 framework to the Mines and Minerals Department of Punjab. The response was highly encouraging, reflecting genuine interest in the province’s development goals. Both the framework and I now await decisive action to move this vision from paper to practice. The example of Turkiye, where clear policies led to a thriving mineral export sector, provides an inspiring benchmark for Punjab. With strong public-private partnerships, transparent policies and disciplined execution, Punjab can rise beyond regional examples and establish itself as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s industrial future.
The Mines and Minerals Department of Punjab, alongside experienced professionals from the mining industry, is well-positioned to lead this transformation. However, immediate action is needed to ensure that the vision becomes a reality. Let’s not miss this opportunity.
—The writer is an institutional development and governance specialist, based in Lahore.
