Pakistan Initiates Diplomatic Campaign Ahead of Second Minerals Investment Forum 2026

Pakistan has officially started its global promotional activities for the 2nd Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF 2026), set to take place on April 8-9, 2026, in Islamabad. This initiative was announced via an official statement on January 9, 2026.

Diplomatic Engagement to Boost International Participation

The Petroleum Minister of Pakistan, Ali Pervaiz Malik, conducted a virtual briefing session with the country’s ambassadors and high commissioners stationed in vital foreign capitals to forge stronger international involvement for PMIF 2026. The minister highlighted the forum’s significance in aligning with Pakistan’s broader economic ambitions.

The session included representatives from the petroleum division and key public sector organizations attending in person, while diplomatic missions participated virtually. Discussions primarily aimed at harmonizing diplomatic efforts to position PMIF 2026 as a leading global investment platform for Pakistan’s mining and mineral sector.

Key Messages from the Minister

Strategic importance: PMIF 2026 is part of Pakistan’s economic priorities to enhance mining sector growth.
International outreach: Ambassadors and high commissioners were urged to engage with mining companies, institutional and financial investors, and governmental counterparts in their host countries.
Sustainable investment: The forum is expected to raise awareness, stimulate economic activities, and attract responsible investments to the sector.

Building on Previous Success

The first Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum held in 2025 was noted for its successful outcomes, attracting over 5,000 delegates from more than 50 countries. During that event, 14 memorandums of understanding were signed with internationally recognized companies, reflecting a rising confidence in Pakistan’s mineral industry.

PMIF 2026 will expand its scope by featuring:

A comprehensive technical conference
An international gemstone exhibition
A resource library designed to provide data-driven insights for investors

Government Policy on Gemstone Sector Reforms

In a related development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif granted in-principle approval to a new national policy framework aimed at reforming Pakistan’s gemstone industry. The policy focuses on aligning the sector with international standards, boosting foreign investment, and establishing a conducive environment for growth.

During a high-level meeting on gemstone reserves and export enhancement, the Prime Minister emphasized the timely implementation of reforms and modernization through:

Setting up international-standard laboratories and certification systems
Creating two centres of excellence for gemstones within the year
Engaging global experts to address implementation challenges

Highlighting Pakistan’s vast gemstone reserves valued at approximately $450 billion, PM Shehbaz noted exports remain significantly low at roughly $5.8 million annually. With over 5,000 companies working on more than 30 types of precious stones, including emeralds, peridot, rubies, topaz, and aquamarine, the government is targeting a $1 billion export mark over the next five years.

Action Plan for the Gemstone Sector

Full integration of the gemstone value chain into the national economy
Promotion of local processing to enhance value addition
Adoption of cutting-edge technology
Launch of private sector training initiatives
Introduction of a ‘Brand Pakistan’ campaign for gemstones

Geological surveys have been tasked to map and assess the location and quality of gemstone deposits in consultation with provincial governments and stakeholders.

Outlook

The combined focus on diplomatic outreach for PMIF 2026 and comprehensive gemstone sector reforms signal Pakistan’s commitment to transforming its mineral resource potential into a sustainable economic driver. These efforts aim to attract broad global participation, increase exports, and foster industry modernization in line with international benchmarks.