Pakistan’s biggest copper and gold mine, the Saindak Copper-Gold Mine, is at risk of shutting down within a month due to security challenges in Balochistan. The mine’s operations have been severely impacted by militant activities in the region, leading to disruptions in the transportation of essential supplies.
The primary supply route for the mine, road transport, has become increasingly unsafe because of a rise in attacks by separatist militants targeting security forces and infrastructure. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of a production halt if the security situation does not improve in the near future.
In response to the situation, Pakistan’s Minister of State for the Interior, Talal Chaudhry, has directed provincial authorities and security agencies to enhance security measures for mining installations, personnel, logistics, and transportation. The Saindak mine, managed by China’s state-owned Metallurgical Corporation of China (MCC) since 2001, is located in the mineral-rich Balochistan region.
Copper and gold output from the mine are mainly exported to China, with last year’s copper exports alone generating approximately $750 million in revenue for Pakistan. The security concerns have also raised uncertainties around Barrick Mining’s proposed $9 billion Reko Diq copper-gold project, situated close to the Saindak mine, as the company evaluates regional security risks before proceeding.
China’s significant investments in Pakistan under the Belt and Road Initiative include various infrastructure and mining projects concentrated in Balochistan. However, security threats, including attacks on Chinese nationals and assets, have prompted Beijing to urge Islamabad to enhance protection for its ventures. The challenges faced by Pakistan in developing its vast mineral resources are highlighted by the security issues in Balochistan, known for its substantial copper and gold deposits.
