The United States has shown keen interest in investing in Pakistan’s copper sector, the Ministry of Commerce informed the National Assembly in a written statement. The development is being seen as a potential boost to Pakistan’s economy, particularly in reducing the country’s widening trade deficit.
According to Commerce Minister Gohar Ijaz, Pakistan is rich in copper resources and ranks fifth globally in copper reserves. These untapped reserves have the capacity to significantly improve the country’s export potential. At present, Pakistan exports most of its raw copper and related materials to China.
The ministry further stated that the US is specifically looking to invest in Pakistan’s broader mineral sector, with a particular focus on copper mining and refining. This interest comes at a time when global demand for copper is rising sharply, driven by its crucial role in clean energy and electric vehicle technologies.
In its submission, the ministry highlighted recent changes in US import tariffs. The US currently imposes a 50% duty on imports of copper, iron, steel, and aluminum. However, refined copper is exempt from this heavy tariff. This makes refined copper exports from Pakistan to the US a more profitable and strategic opportunity.
Experts believe that if refined locally, Pakistan’s copper could unlock billions in export value. The Ministry emphasized that by attracting foreign investment and building local refining capacity, Pakistan could position itself as a competitive player in the global copper supply chain—particularly as the world transitions to green technologies.