Finnish technology company Metso has shown strong interest in investing in Pakistan’s mining sector, particularly in the Reko Diq copper-gold project. The announcement came after a high-level meeting between Piia Karhu, Metso’s President of Minerals, and Bilal Azhar Kayani, Pakistan’s Minister of State for Finance and Railways. Metso aims to supply modern mining equipment and services while also training local talent.
Karhu shared that Metso is preparing to become a key technology partner for the Reko Diq mine. The company will provide advanced machinery and mining solutions to help develop the site. In addition, Metso plans to invest in workforce training to align with Pakistan’s long-term goals for sustainable development. Both parties agreed to continue talks through technical experts from Pakistan’s Ministry of Railways.
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Minister Kayani highlighted the progress of railway infrastructure projects ML-1 and ML-3, which will support logistics for Reko Diq. The mine is scheduled to begin production in December 2028. He welcomed Metso’s participation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a favorable environment for foreign investors. Reko Diq is expected to significantly boost Pakistan’s economy and attract international investment.
Currently, Barrick Gold, a Canadian mining firm, owns 50% of Reko Diq, while the remaining 50% is jointly held by Pakistan and Balochistan’s provincial government. The project had been stalled for years due to legal disputes, but resumed after a settlement in 2022. It is considered one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits in the world.
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In a separate meeting, Metso’s delegation also met Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik. The discussion focused on Pakistan’s broader mining reforms and opportunities. Malik emphasized the shift from outdated mining practices to modern, mechanised operations. Calling Reko Diq the “torch bearer” of the sector, he reassured investors of a stable policy framework and global-standard mining regulations.