National Assembly Session Briefed on Reko Diq Project: Historic Investment and Job Creation Ahead

Islamabad, Quetta:A National Assembly session was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, where Petroleum Minister Ali Parvez Malik provided a detailed briefing on the Reko Diq mining project.

Minister Ali Parvez Malik revealed that the first phase of the Reko Diq project will begin production in 2028, targeting an annual output of **300,000 ounces of gold** and **200,000 tons of copper**. The second phase, which will commence in 2034, aims to increase production to **500,000 ounces of gold** and **400,000 tons of copper** annually.

The Minister highlighted that this project represents the largest investment in Pakistan’s history, with a total value of **\$75 billion**. The mining operation will span a total duration of **37 years**.

Regarding Balochistan’s share, Ali Parvez Malik explained that the province will receive a **25% share** in the project, along with taxes, royalties, and other benefits. Specifically, in the first year, Balochistan will receive **\$5 million** in royalties, with the amount increasing to **\$7.5 million** in the second year. From the third year onward, when commercial production begins, the province will receive **\$10 million** annually. By 2028, Balochistan is expected to receive a total of **\$50 million**.

The Petroleum Minister also mentioned that **\$5.3 million** has already been spent on providing facilities for the project, while a pre-payment of **\$10 million** has been made to Balochistan as part of the construction phase. The project is expected to generate approximately **7,500 jobs** once construction and implementation are in full swing.

Additionally, Ali Parvez Malik clarified that there has been no investment from Saudi Arabia in the project as of now. However, he mentioned that both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are working jointly to explore potential investment opportunities in the future.

The Reko Diq project is set to become a major economic driver for both Balochistan and Pakistan, contributing significantly to job creation and the national economy.